
Class. il22:l 

Book ^__jil.l/.,L 



SMITHSONIAN DEPOSIT 



• / 



PREMIUM HISTORY. 

HISTORY 

OF THE 

UNITED STATES, 

FROM THEIR 

FIRST SETTLEMENT AS COLONIES, 

TO THE 

CLOSE OF MR. TILER'S ADMINISTRATION, 
IN 1845. 

TO WHICH ARE ADDED 

aUESTIONS, 

ADAPTED TO THE USE OF SCHOOLS. 

NEW EDITION, WITH MAPS. 
•KJivitas, incredibile memoratu est, adepta libertate, quantum breri creverit."--SaWu«J. 

COOPERSTOWN, N. Y. 
PUBLISHED BY H. &, E. PHINNE^'. 



1846. 









Entered according to act of Congress, in the year 1846, 
by Salma Hale in the Clerk's office of the District Court 
of the United States, in and for the District of New 
Hampshire. 



At a meeting of the American Academy of Language 
\nA Belles Lettres, held at the Citv Hall, in the city of 
New York, October 20, 1820,— Hon. Brockholst Living- 
ston, First Vice-President, in the chair ; Rev. John B. 
Romeyn, D. D. Clerk, — the following preamble and reso- 
lution, offered by W. S. Cardell, Esq., seconded by the 
Rev. Doctor Wainu'right, vi^ere unanimously adopted : — 
; . As the proper education of youth is, in all communities, 
closely connected with national prosperity and honor ; and 
as it is particularly important in the United States, that 
the rising generation should possess a correct knowledge 
of their own country, and a patriotic attachment to its 
welfare ; — 

Resolved, that a premium of not less than four hundred 
dollars, and a gold medal worth lifty dollars, be given to 
the author, being an American citizen, who, witliin two 
years, shall produce the best written history of the United 
States, and which, with such history, shall contain a suit- 
able exposition of the situation, character, and interests, 
absolute aud relative, of the American Republic ; calcu- 
lated for a class-book in academies and schools. This work 
is to be examined and approved by a committee of the 
institution, in reference to the interest of its matter, the 
justness of its facts and principles, the purity, perspicuity, 
and elegance of its style, and its adaptation to its intend- 
ed purpose. 

By order of the Academv, 

ALEX. McLEOb. Rec'g. Sec'ry 

The undersigned, being appointed a committee with full 
powers to examine the several works submitted,and award 
the medal and premium, in pursuance of the above resolu- 
tion, having perused four books,offeredby different authors, 
according to the conditions required, have selected one as 
being the best of the four ; and after referring it to its au- 
thor for such minor corrections as might render it more 
acceptable to the public, do now finally adjudge said med- 
al and premium to be due to the writer of the work re- 
cently printed, entitled, 

" A History of the United States, from their First 
Settlement as Colonies, to the close of the War with 
Great Britain, in 1815. 

' Civitas, incredibile memoratu est, adepta libertate, quantum brevi 
exeyetit.'—Sallust. " 

WM. P. VAN NESS,) 

AL E X ' R Mc L E O D, > Committee. 

JACOB MORTON. ) 



CONTENTS 



FACE. 

Introduction 7 

History of Virginia 15 

Massachusetts 26 

New Hampshire 56 

Connecticut 59 

Rhode Island 66 

New York 68 

New Jersey 84 

Delaware . ♦ . .... 87 

Pennsylvania ....... 89 

Maryland 93 

North Carolina ....... 96 

South Carolina WO 

Georgia 105 

French War of 1756-63 110 

Revolution 126 

Revolution 139 

Expedition against Canada 159 

Campaign of 1776 169 

Campaign of 1777 ...... 179 

Campaign of 1778 189 

Campaign of 1779 194 

Campaign of 1780 198 

Campaign of 1781, and Termination of the War . 206 
Adoption of the Constitution, aud Washington's Ad- 
ministration 218 

Mr. Adams's, Mr. Jeiferson's, and Part of Mr. Madi- 
son's Administration — Declaration of War . . 237 

Campaign of 1812 253 

Campaign of 1813 259 

Campaign of 1814 — Conclusion of the War . . 272 
Close of Madison's administration . . . 280 

Monroe's administration 285 

J. Q. Adams's do 291 

Jackson's do 295 

Van Buren's do 305 

Tyler's do 308 

Appendix 312 



PREFACE 



THE following^ work was begun many years since ; the appear, 
ance, soon after, of several books, on a plan nearly similar, and the 
want of sufficient leisure, induced the author to relinquish his design. 
Perceiving, from the subsequent offer of a premium for the best 
written work of the kind, that another was wanted, he resumed and 
completed his undertaking. 

It was his purpose to present a correct and interesting narrative 
of all the important events in the history of his country ; to exhibit, 
m a strong light, the principles of political and religious freedom 
which our forefathers professed, and for which they fought and 
conquered ; to record the numerous examples of fortitude, courage, 
and patriotism, which have rendered them illustrious ; and to pro- 
duce not so much by moral reflections, as by the tenor of the narrative, 
virtuous and patriotic impressions upon the mind of the reader. It 
was his aim to render the book worthy to be read, not only in the 
academies and schools of his country, but by that very numei'ou3 
portion of his fellow citizens, who have seldom the opportunity to 
peruse more voluminous productions ; and by those who might wish 
to review their studies, and fix in their memory the succession of 
events ; and it was also his aim to exhibit a style which should be 
correct and pure ; should be free from ambitious ornament, and from 
those faults with which the writers of this country have been too 
justly charged. He by no means supposes that he has accomplished 
all he aimed at. 

It was thought indispensable that a histoiy, intended to be ac- 
cessible to all, should contain some account of the different states of 
the union ; in order that many prejudices, the offspring of ignorance, 
might be removed ; and that the injurious effects, which must flow 
from an acquaintance with the history of a single state only, might be 
avoided. It was the correct remark of an able writer, that the 
history of colonies generally affords but two interesting eras, that of 
their settlement, and that of their independence. To both oi these 
the author has more particularly directed his attention. 

Let those who imagine that no book can do good that is not a great 



6 ;>REFACE. 

book, consider that every American should be acquainted with the 
history of his country, and that a voluminous history v^^ould not be 
read by one twentieth part of the population ; that, on most minds, 
the same or even stronger impressions would be made by a work 
well written on the plan of this, than by a minute, and of course 
often tedious, detail of every event ; that the perusal of such a work, 
in early life, must excite rather than gratify curiosity ; that much, 
very much good would be done, should a knowledge of the important 
events be communicated, and correct impressions be given, to those 
who would otherwise remain entirely ignorant ; and that, in fact, 
this book contains more than many an octavo of high price. 

But while it is important that no American citizen should be 
ignorant of the pi-incipal events in the history of his country, it is the 
indispensable duty of all, who can enjoy the opportunity, to read 
and to study the larger and more particular histories which have been 
published. 

There is little danger that this small and favored class will neglect 
this duty. The danger is greater, that much the most numerous 
portion of the population — that portion in whose hands are the des- 
tinies of the republic — would read notliing on the subject should 
expensive works only be published. 

1825. • 

This work has been carefully revised, with the aid of the late 
researches of Bancroft and others, and all the errors found in it cor- 
rected. None were found, except one of a date, which were not 
Banctioned by the last histories extant at the time it was written. 
That it is now faultless is not to be supposed ; but the author believes 
that it contains as few errors as any historical work. 

The principal events in the hi?t.ory of the country, from the con- 
clusion of the war in 1815, to the close of Mr. Tyler's administration, 
bave been concisely stated, in the form of annals. To have been more 
particular would have enlarged the book to an inconvenient size ; 
and would, perhaps, have rendered it unfit for use in schools. A 
Btill further improvement is contemplated by the insertion of maps 
of the several portions of the Union. 

1846. 



HISTORY 



OF THE 



UNITED STATES 



INTRODUCTION. 

The continent of America was probably unknown to the 
ancients. If once known, as some have supposed, to the 
Carthagenians, the Scandinavians, and the Welsh, all 
knowledge of it was afterwards lost. The discovery of 
this extensive region, constituting nearly one half of the 
habitable globe, was the accidental result of the attempts, 
made in the fifteenth century, to find a passage, by sea, 
from the ports of Europe to the East Indies, whose pre- 
cious, commodities were then transported, overland, by a 
long, dangerous, and e-xpensive route. 

2. This passage was universally sought by sailing south, 
along the western coasts of Europe and Africa, in the hope 
of finding the termination of the continent, when the Indies, 
it was supposed, might be attained, by taking at first an 
easterly and then a northerly course. The discovery of 
the Cape of Good Hope, in 1487, encouraged expectation, 
and gave increased activity to the spirit of adventure. 

3. Among the navigators of that age, Christopher Co- 
lumbus, a native of the republic of Genoa, was distinguish- 
ed for experience and skill in his profession, for extensive 
knowledge, and for a bold and original genius. The shape 
of the earth, then known to be round, and the fact that 
pieces of carved wood, a canoe, and two human bodies, of 
d complexion different from that of Europeans, had been 
driven by long westerly winds, upon the shores of islands 
contiguous to Europe, suggested to his observing mind the 
project of seeking the East Indies by sailing directly west 



8 INTRODUCTION. 

4. Unable to defray the expenses of an expedition* he 
sought first the assistance of his native city. His coun- 
trymen, accustomed only to cruising, in frail vessels, along 
the shores of the continent, treated the project as chimeri- 
cal, and declined furnishing aid. A pressing application to 
the king of Portugal, in whose dominions he had resided, 
met likewise with ridicule and rejection. Persevering in 
his purpose, he then sent his brother, Bartholomew, to 
England, to apply to Henry VII, and went himself to 
Spain, which was then governed by Ferdinand and Isa- 
bella, from whom he solicited assistance. 

5. For a long time he sohcited in vain. At length the 
queen,persuaded by his representations, became his friend 
and patron. By her directions, three small vessels were 
fitted out, and he was authorized to sail with these upon 
his projected voyage of discovery. On the third of Au- 
gust, 1492, he departed from Palos, in Spain, directing his 
course towards the Canary Islands. 

6. He stopped there to refit, and on the sixth of Sep- 
tember, boldly adventured into seas which no vessel had 
yet entered, with no chart to direct him, no guide but his 
compass, and without any knowledge of the tides or cur- 
rents which might interrupt his course. He moved rapidly 
before the trade wind, which blows invariably from the 
east to the west between the tropics, judiciously conceal- 
ing from his ignorant and timid crews the progress he 
made, lest they might be alarmed at the speed, with which 
they receded from home. 

7. About the fourteenth of September, he was distant 
nearly six hundred miles from the most westerly of the 
Canaries ; and here the magnetic needle was observed to 
vary from its direction to the polar star, and incline towards 
the west; an appearance which, although now familiar, 
had never before been observed. 

8. Columbus and his companions were alarmed. They 
were far from land, and far from the tracks of other navi- 
gators. All before and around them was unknown, and 
their only guide seemed to be no longer entitled to their 
confidence. But although alarmed, Columbus lost not 
his presence of mind. He assigned a reason for the 
variation which, without satisfying himself, silenced the 
murmurs of his companions. 

9. But the interval of quiet and subordination was short. 
Dissatisfaction soon reappeared among the ignorant and 
wavering,and, gradually spreading, at length pervaded the 



INTRODUCTION. 9 

whole squadron. The men blamed their sovereign for 
listening to the schemes of a dreaming adventurer. The 
indications of land had all proved fallacious. They would 
be amused and deceived no longer. They agreed that 
Columbus should be forced to relinquish an undertaking 
which seemed to promise nothing but destruction; and 
some of the more daring talked of throwing him into the 
sea, as a visionary projector, whose death would cause 
no regret, and produce no inquiry. 

10. Amidst these difficulties, Columbus displayed those 
traits of character which proved the greatness of his mind, 
and his pecuhar fitness for the arduous duties of his sta- 
tion. He appeared with a steady and cheerful counte- 
nance, as if satisjfied with what he had done. Sometimes 
he soothed his companions by holding out to them a 
prospect of riches and of fame, and by offering a gratuity 
to him who should first discover land. Sometimes he 
assumed a tone of authority, threatening them with the 
vengeance of their sovereign, and everlasting infamy, 
shoula they compel him to abandon the undertaking. 

11. These encouragements and threats prevented open 
and forcible resistance to his authority. Meanwhile the 
squadron proceeded onward; the indications of land had 
become frequent, and convinced him that it could not be 
far distant.^ But his crew were unconvinced, and their 
discontent increased. Assembling tumultuously on deck, 
they demanded to be conducted back to Spain. As a last 
expedient, he proposed that they should continue on their 
course three days longer, and if, in that time, land should 
not be discovered, he would then comply with their demand. 

12. They consented. Before the time expired, Colum- 
bus, on the 11th of October, at midnight, saw a light 
glimmering at a distance. "Alight! alight!" was the 
joyful exclamation, which instantly resounded through 
the squadron. On the approach of morning, aU hands 
stood gazing intently in the direction where land, it was 
expected, would be discovered. 

13. Soon, on board the Pinta, the most forward vessel, 
was heard the cry of "Land ! land !" which was repeated, 
with almost fra-nti® delight, by the crews of the other 
vessels. Passing from one extreme to the other, they, 
who a few days before had reviled and insulted their 
commander, now regarded him as one whom the Deity 
had endowed with knowledge and penetration above the 
common lot of mortals. 



10 INTRODUCTION. 

14. At sunrise, Columbus, in a rich and splendid dress, 
landed, and, with a drawn sword in his hand, and display- 
ing the royal standard, took possession of the island for 
the crown of Spain, all his followers kneehng on the 
shore and kissing the ground with tears of joy The 
natives, who had assembled in great numbers on the first 
appearance of the ships, stooa around the Spaniards, 
gazing in speechless astonishment. 

15. "The Europeans were hardly less amazed at the 
scene before them. Every herb, and shrub, and tree, was 
different from those which flourished in Europe. The in- 
habitants appeared in the simple innocence of nature, en- 
tirely naked. Their black hair, long and uncurled, floated 
upon their shoulders or was bound in tresses around their 
heads. Though not taU, they were well shaped and active. 
They were shy at first, through fear, but soon became fa- 
miliar with the Spaniards ; from whom, with transports of 
joy, they received various trinkets, for which, in return, 
they gave such provisions as they had, and some cotton 
yarn, the only commodity of value they could proauce." 

16. To this island Columbus gave the name of San 
Salvador. The natives called it Guanahani, and by that 
name it is now known. It is one of the Bahama isles, and 
is above three thousand miles from Gomera, the most 
western of the C anaries. From the poverty and ignorance 
of the inhabitants, Columbus was convinced that he had 
not yet arrived at the rich country which w^as the object 
of his search. Leaving Guanahani, he discovered and 
visited several other islands, and at length arrived at one 
called Hayti, and by him Hispaniola. Here he remained 
a few weeks, and then returned to Spain. 

17. The news of his wonderful discovery filled the 
kingdom with astonishment and joy. His reception at 
court was accompanied by flattering and splendid cere- 
monies ordained for the occasion; and he was honored 
by many proofs of royal favor. He made three subsequent 
voyages, and, in 1498, discovered the continent of America, 
at the mouth of the Oronoco, a river of the third or fourth 
magnitude in the New World, but far surpassing the 
largest in tlie Old. 

18. The honor, however, of first discovering the conti- 
nent, must, without diminishing the merit of Columbus, 
be given to John Cabot and his son Sebastian. They 
were Venetians by birth, but, soon after the result of the 
first voyage of Columbus was known, were sent, by the 



INTRODUCTION. 11 

king" of England, on an expedition of discovery, in the 
same direction. In July, 1497, they discovered the con- 
tinent at that part of it now called Labrador. In another 
voyage made by Sebastian, in 1498, he reached theconti 
nent in the fifty seventh degree of north latitude. Thence 
he sailed southwesterly along the coast as far probably 
as North Carolina, in the vain hope of finding a passage 
to the East Indies, and returned to England without mak- 
ing any settlement. On the discoveries made in this 
voyage, the English founded their claim to the eastern 
Dortion of North America. 

19. In 1499, Alonza de Ojeda, a companion of Colum- 
bus in his first expedition, sailing under the patronage of 
several Portuguese merchants, discovered the contment 
at Paria, in the 5th degree of north latitude. Americus 
Vespucius, a Florentine gentleman who accompanied 
him, published, on his return, an account of the voyage 
and a description of the country which they had visited ; 
and from him it derives the name it bears, 

20. In 1504, several adventurous navigators, from dif- 
ferent parts of France, came, in small vessels, to fish on 
the banks of Newfoundland. In 1524, John Verrazzano, 
a Florentine, in the employment of the king of France, 
sailed along the coast of America, from Florida to the 
50th degree of north latitude. He is supposed to have 
entered the harbor of New York, He made, the next 
year, another voyage, from which he never returned, nor 
IS it known by what disaster he perished, 

21. During the next forty years, frequent voyages were 
made to the coast of North America. Of some, the 
object was fishing ; of others, trade with the natives. In 
1540, the French made an attempt to plant a colony in 
Canada which was unsuccessful. 

22. The religious wars which afflicted France in the 
sixteenth century, induced that illustrious statesman, 
Jasper Coligni, the head of the Protestant sect, to pro- 
ject, in 1502, a settlement in America, to which his 
brethren might retire from the persecution of the Catho- 
lics. Fitting; out two ships, he sent them thither under 
the command of John Ribaut, who landed at a place 
supposed to be within the limits of South Carolina, built 
a fort, left a part of his men, and returned to France. 

23. The men who were left, soon after mutinied, kille d 
their commander, built and equipped a vessel, and put to 
eea. Having been out several weeks, and consumed all 

B 



12 INTRODUCTION. 

their provisions, one of their number, who consented to 
be made a victim to save his comrades, vv'as killed and 
eaten. A few days afterwards, they were taken up by 
an English vessel and carried to England. This was the 
first attempt to plant a colony within the limits of the 
United States ; and it is worthy of remark, that to secure 
an asylum from religious persecution was the object in 
view. Coligni afterwards sent a party to Florida, who 
were treacherously massacred by the Spaniards. 

24. In 1583, Sir Humphrey Gilbert, having received 
from queen Elizabeth a grant of such "remote, heathen 
and barbarous lands" as he might discover and occupy, 
fitted out a squadron of five ships, and sailed for America. 
On arriving before St. John, in Newfoundland, he found 
thirty-six vessels fishing in the harbor. He landed, and 
took possession of the country in the name of his sove- 
reign. On his return to England, he sufiered shipwreck 
and perished. 

25. The next year. Sir Walter Raleigh, distinguished 
in the history of England as a gallant knio-ht and as the 
favorite of the queen, obtained a renewal of the patent 
granted to Sir Humphrey, who was his half brother, and 
despatched to America two ships commanded by captains 
Amidas and Barlow. They first landed on an island in 
the inlet to Pamphco sound, then proceeded to the isle 
of Roanoke at the mouth of Albemarle sound, in North 
Carolina, and at both places were treated with great 
respect by the natives. 

26. Having freighted their ships with furs, sassafras, 
and cedar, they returned to Eno-land, where they pubhsh- 
ed marvellous accounts of the beauty of the country, the 
fertility of the soil, the mildness of the climate, and the 
innocence of the natives. The queen was so charmed 
with the description, that, as a memorial that the country 
had been discovered during the reign of a virgin queen, 
she called it Virginia. 

27. The next year, Raleigh sent from England seven 
vessels, commanded by Sir Richard Grenville, and carry- 
ing upwards of one hundred persons, destined to begin a 
settlement. They were left under Ralph Lane, on iToan- 
oke island. The success of tlie Spaniards infindinggold 
in South America, led these adventurers to employ their 
time in a fruitless search for it here. In 1586, they were 
visited by Sir Francis Drake, who, at their request, con- 
veyed them back to England. Lane carrying home a 



INTRODUCTION. 13 

quantity of tobacco, the Indian custom of smoking it was 
adopted by Raleigh, a man of gayety and fashion, and 
introduced at court. 

28. Soon after Drake departed, Grenville again arrived 
with provisions for the settlement. Finding it abandoned, 
he left fifteen men to keep possession of the country. In 
1587, three other ships were sent to the same place, but 
the men who had been left could not be found, having 
probably been murdered by the savages. After remain- 
mg a few weeks on the coast, the ships returned to 
England, leaving one hundred and seventeen men on the 
island. War then existing between England and Spain, 
two years elapsed before the coast was again visited. In 
that period the whole number perished; but in what 
manner has never been ascertained. Thus ended the 
exertions of Raleigh to plant a colony in America. 

29. These successive misfortunes withdrew, for several 
years, the attention of the English from these distant re- 
gions. In 1602, Bartholomew Gosnold made a voyage 
to America. Instead of taking the circuitous, but usual 
route, by the West India islands, he steered directly west 
from England, shortening the voyage at least one third, 
and arrived, in May, on the coast of Massachusetts. He 
discovered a headland, and taking a great quantity of 
codfish near it, called it cape Cod. Proceeding south- 
wardly, he passed Gay Head, entered Buzzard's bay, and 
u-pon an island withm it erected a small fort, the ruins of 
which were visible so late as 1797. After trading a while 
with the Indians, he returned home. 

30. The report made by Gosnold revived the spirit of 
adventure. In 1603 and 1605, two voyages were made 
in the same direction, and Penobscot bay, Massachusetts 
bay, and the rivers between them, were discovered. The 
accounts given by the last navigators confirmed the re- 
port of Gosnold, and led to a more extensive scheme of 
colonization than had yet been attempted. 

31. Of this scheme Mr. Richard Hakluyt was the most 
active promoter. By his persuasion, an association of gen- 
tlemen, in different parts of the kingdom, was formed for 
the purpose of sending colonies to America. Upon their 
apphcation to king James, he, by letters patent, dated in 
1606, divided the country of Virginia, then considered as 
extending from the southernboundary of North Carolinato 
the northern boundary of Maine, into two districts, and con- 
stituted two companies for planting colonies withi^' *hem. 



14 INTKODUCTION. 

32. The southern district he granted to Sir Thomas 
Gates and his associates, chiefly resident in London, and 
therefore styled the London Company. The northern 
district he granted to Thomas Hanham and his associates, 
who were styled the Plymouth Company. The two dis- 
tricts were styled South and North Virginia. The mem- 
bers of these companies were principally merchants ; their 
objects were the extension of commerce and the discovery 
of mines of the precious metals, which were supposed to 
abound in North as well as in South America. 

33. For the sui)reme government of the colonies, a 
grand council was instituted, the members of which were 
to reside in England, and to be appointed by the king-. 
The subordinate jurisdiction was committed to a council 
in each colony, the members of which were to be ap- 
pointed by the grand council in England, and to be 
governed by its instructions. To the emigrants and 
their descendants were secured the enjoyment of all the 
rights of denizens or citizens, in the same manner and 
to the same extent as if they had remained or been born 
in England. 

34. Before the date, however, of these letters patent, 
the king of France granted to the Sieur De Monts all the 
territory from the 40th to the 46th degree of north latitude, 
or from New Jersey to Nova Scotia, then called Acadia. 
By virtue of this grant a settlement was made in 1604, on 
the south-eastern side of the bay of Fundy, and called 
Port Royal. In 1608, Samuel Champlain, the agent of 
De Monts, laid the foundation of Quebec, the capital of 
Canada. From these possessions of the French, the 
colonies of New England and New York were, for more 
than a century, frequently and cruelly annoyed. 




^VSaLinfft 



CHAPTER 1. 

HISTORY OF VIRGINIA. 

The London Company, soon after its incorporation in 
1606, despatched to America three ships, having on board 
one hundred and five persons, destined to begin a settle- 
ment in South Virgmia. Christopher Newport com- 
manded the squadron. He v^^as accompanied by captain 
Gosnold and other distinguished individuals ; some allured 
by curiosity, and some by the prospect of gain, to visit a 
country said to be inhabited by a new race of beings, and 
to abound in silver and gold. 

^ 2. A sealed box was delivered to Newport, with direc- 
tions that it should not be opened until twenty-four hours 
after the emigrants had landed in America. During the 
voyage, violent dissensions arose among the principal 

Jersonages on board the squadron. Of most of them 
ohn Smith, one of the adventurers, incurred the distrust 
and hatred. His superior talents, and the fame he had 
acquired by his exploits in war, excited their envy, and 
probably caused him to claim for himself greater defer- 
ence than they were wilhng or bound to yield. 

3. In his youth, he had been a merchant's apprentice. 
At the age of fifteen, he quitted his master, and travelled 
in France, the Netherlands, Egypt, and Germany. Hav- 
ing joined the array of the emperor of Austria, who was 
then at war with the Turks, he received, as a reward for 
a successful stratagem, the command of a troop of horse. 

4. In three personal combats with Turkish champions, 
he came off victorious, at each time killing his adversary. 
In a battle which subsequently took place, he was wound- 
ed and taken prisoner. After his recovery, he was sent 
as a slave to Constantinople. He had fallen into the 
hands of a cruel master; but his mistress, captivated by 
his fine appearance and heroic character, and commiser- 
ating his fate, sent him, in the absence of her husband, to 
her brother, who dwelt,near the sea of Asoph. He, dis- 
regarding her directions, assigned to Smuh degrading 
and laborious tasks, and beat him without mercy when- 
ever he failed to perform them. 

5. Seizing a favorable opportunity, he killed his new 
master, and fled into Russia. After visiting Germany, 
France, Spain, and Morocco, he returned to England, 



16 VIRGINIA. 

became acquainted with Gosnold, and was easily per- 
suaded to embark in an expedition to a country he had 
not yet visited, in search of new scenes and new adven- 
tures. While yet at sea, he was accused of an intention 
to murder the council, usurp the government, and make 
himself king of Virginia ; and upon this absurd accusation 
was put in confinement. 

6. The place of their destination was the disastrous po- 
sition at Roanoke. A storm fortunately drove them to 
the mouth of Chesapeake bay, which they entered on the 
SG'th of April, 1607. Discovering a large and beautiful 
river, they gave it the name of James river, ascended it, 
and on its banks had several interviews with the natives. 

7. In one of these, a chief came forward, holding in one 
hand his bow and arrows, in the other a pipe of tobacco, 
and demanded the cause of their coming. They made 
signs of peace, and were received as friends. Paspiha, 
another chief, when informed of their wish to settle in the 
country, offered them as much land as they wanted, and 
sent them a deer for their entertainment 

8. On the 13th of May, they debarked at a place which 
they called Jamestown. On opening the seal-ed box, it 
was found to contain the names of the council and in- 
structions for their guidance. In the list were the names 
of Gosnold, Smith, VVingfield, and Newport. Wingfield 
was elected president, and a vote was passed excluding 
Smith from his seat at the board. He was, however, 
released from confinement. 

9. The whole country was then a wilderness, in which 
a few Indians roamed in pursuit of their enemies, or of 
wDd beasts for food. In color they were darker than the 
European, but not so black as the negro. They possessed 
ail the vices and virtues of the savage state ; were cun- 
ning in stratagem, ferocious in battle, cruel to their con- 
qiiered enemies, kind and hospitable to their friends. 
They had no written language ; they were unacquainted 
with the use of iron and the other metals ; their weapons 
of war were a bow and arrows, a stone hatchet, which 
they called a tomahawk, and a club.. They lived prin- 
cipally by hunting, but sometimes cultivated small patches 
of Indian corn. 

10. From such neighbors, the emigrants could expect 
but little aid or comfort. Yet they toolv no care to provide 
for their future subsistence or preservation. They plant- 
ed nothing the first year. The provisions brought from 



VIRGINIA. 17 

England were soon consumed. In four months, famine 
and the diseases of a hot and damp cHmate swept away 
fifty of their number. 

11. These dreadful distresses led them to reflect upon 
their situation and conduct. Having become sensible of 
their injustice to Smith, they, at his request, had granted 
him a trial, which resulted in an honorable accjuittal. His 
personal talents and activity now enforced, in adversity, 
the same regard and deference which, in prosperous times, 
are yielded only to vested authority and official station. 

12. By his advice, a fort was erected, to protect them 
from the attacks of the Indians. To procure provisions 
and explore the country, he made frequent and distant ex- 
cursions into the wilderness. In one of these, he seized 
an Indian idol, made with skins stuffed with moss, for the 
redemption of which as much corn was brought him as he 
required. Sometimes he procured supplies by caresses, 
sometimes by purchase, and when these means failed of 
6uccess,he scrupled not to resort to stratagem and violence. 

13. But in the midst of his activity and usefulness, he 
was, while exploring the source of the river Chickahominy, 
surprised and attacked by a party of Indians. He defended 
himself bravely until his companions were killed, when he 
turned to flee. Running at hazard, he sunk to his neck 
in a swamp, and was taken prisoner. 

14. The exulting savages conducted him in triumph, 
through several towns, to their king, Powhatan. At the 
end of six weeks, their chiefs assembled to deliberate on 
his fate. They decided that he should die. He was led 
forth to execution ; his head was placed upon a stone, and 
an Indian stood near with a club, the instrument of death. 
At this instant, Pocahontas, the young and favorite 
daughter of the king, appeared, and rushing between the 
executioner and the prisoner, folded his head in her arms, 
and entreated her father to spare his life. Powhatan 
relented, directed Smith to be conducted to his wigwam 
or hut, and soon afterwards sent him, escorted by twelve 
guides, to Jamestown. 

15. On his arrival there, he found the number of set- 
tlers reduced to thirty-eight, and most of these had deter- 
mined to abandon the country. By j)ersuasions and 
threats, he induced a majority to rehnquish their design. 
The remainder, more resolute, went on board a small 
vessel in the river. Against these he instantly directed 



18 VIRGINIA. 

the guns of the fort, when, to avoid t]ie danger of being 
sunk, they hastened back to their companions. 

16. Sustaining now a high reputation among the Indians, 
he obtained from them occasional supphes of provisions, 
w^hich preserved the colony from famnie. The princess 
Pocahontas, also, remembering him whose life she had 
saved, frequently sent him such articles as were most 
needed. Tlie settlers were thus enabled to subsist until 
captain Newport, who had returned to England, again 
arrived at .Tamestov^Ti, with a quantity of provisions, and 
one hundred and twenty persons, who came to reside in 
the colony. 

17. All danger being in appearance over, the emigrants 
no longer submitted to the authority, nor listened to the 
advice of Smith. Disorder and confusion followed; and 
about this time, that raging passion for gold, which first 
impelled Europeans to resort to this country, was again 
excited. In a stream north of Jamestown, a glittering 
earth was discovered, which was supposed to be gold dust. 
"Immediately," says Stith, in his history, "there was no 
thought, no discourse, no hope, and no work, but to dig 
gold, wash gold, refine gold, and load gold.'' And noUvith- 
standing the remonstrances of Smith, a ship was freighted 
with this worthless commodity and sent to England. 

18. Finding he could not be useful in Jamesto\yn, and 
unwilling to be idle. Smith set out upon an expedition to 
explore the coasts of the Chesapeake. With great labor 
and fatigue, he examined every inlet, river, and bay, as 
far as the mouth of the Rappahannock; whence, his 
provisions being exhausted, he returned home. 

19. He found the people turbulent and discontented. 
They charged the president with squandering the public 
property, and imposing upon them unnecessary fatigue, by 
compelling them to build for himself a house of pleasure 
in the woods. He was deposed; Smith was chosen to 
succeed him ; he refused to accept the office, but no other 
person was appointed. 

20. Having procured a supply of provisions, he again 
departed to complete the survey of the Chesapeake. He 
visited all the countries on both shores ; he traded with 
Bome tribes ; he fought with others ; and left, among all, 
the highest admiration of the beneficence or valor of the 
English. Returning after an absence of six weeks, he 
was again chosen president. Yielding to the general 



VIRGINIA. 19 

wish, he consented to accept the office. Under his ad- 
ministration, habits of industry and subordination were 
formed, and peace and plenty smiled upon the colony. 

21. In 1609, the London Company, having obtained a 
new charter, conferring- greater powers and privileges 
than the former, despatched to Virgmia nine ships,carrymg 
five hundred emig-rantSj^ and certain officers appointed to 
supersede the existing government. The ship, in which 
these officers embarked, was driven ashore on the island 
of Bermudas. The settlers, who came in the others, were 
licentious, prolligate, and disorderly. Assuming the power 
of disposing of the government, they conferred it some- 
times on one, and sometimes on another. 

22. In this confusion, Smith hesitated but a short time 
in deciding what course to pursue. He determined that 
his authority was not suspended until the arrival of the 
persons appointed to supersede him, and resumed, with a 
strong hand, the reins of government. He boldly im- 
prisoned the leaders of the sedition, and restored for a 
time regularity and obedience. 

23. The Indians, jealous of the increasing power of the 
strangers who had invaded their country, concerted a plot 
to destroy them. Pocahontas, the constant friend of Vir- 
ginia, hastened, in a dark and dreary night, to Jamestown, 
and informed Smith of his danger. Measures of precau- 
tion were instantly taken. The Indians, perceiving that 
their design v/as discovered, again brought presents of 
peace to tTie English. 

24. Soon after, Smith, having received by accident a 
severe wound, returned to England to procure the aid of 
a surgeon. Disastrous consequences followed. The 
Indians, learning that the man whom they dreaded most 
had left the colony, attacked it with united forces. A 
dreadful famine ensued. To such extremity were the 
settlers reduced, that they devoured the skins of the 
horses, the bodies of the Indians whom they had killed, 
and at last those of their own companions, who had sunk 
under accumulated miseries. These tremendous suffer- 
ings were recollected long afterwards with horror, and 
the period was remembered and distinguished by the 
name of the "starving time." 

25. In six months, the colony, from five hundred per- 
Bons, was reduced to sixty; and these were exceedingly 
dejected. In this situation, they were visited by those who 
were shipwrecked at Bermudas. All immediately deter- 



20 VIRGINIA. 

mined to return to England. For this purpose, the rem- 
nant of the colony embarked on board the ships just ar- 
rived, and sailed down the river. Fortunately they were 
met by lord Delaware, who had been appointed governor 
of Virginia, and who, having brought with him a supply 
of provisions, persuaded them to return to Jamestown. 

26. This nobleman, by the mildness of his temper and 
his assiduity in business, restored order and contentment; 
and the Indians were again taught to respect and fear the 
English. After a short administration, he was succeeded 
by Sir Thomas Dale, by whom, on the recurrence of dis- 
orderly conduct, martial law was proclaimed and rigidly 
enforced. In the same year, [1611,] Sir Thomas Gates 
was appointed Governor. He brought with him to Virginia 
a reinforcement of settlers, by whom new towns were 
founded. And another charter was granted by the king, 
conferring additional privileges. 

27. In 1612, captain ArgaT, having learned, while on a 
trading voyage to the Potomac, that Pocahontas was in 
the neighborhood, visited and persuaded her to goon board 
his vessel. He treated her respectfully, but detained and 
carried her to Jamestown. He presumed that the posses- 
sion of Pocahontas would give the English an ascendency 
over Powhatan, who was Icnown to feel a strong attach- 
ment to his daughter. In this, however, he was disap- 
pointed. Powhatan, noble by nature, felt indignant at 
this instance of treachery in the English. He offered a 
ransom for his daughter, but refused to consent to any 
terms of peace until she was restored. 

28. During her stay at Jamestown, her beauty, her art- 
less simphcity, and those graces of manner which ever 
accompany dignity of mind and innocence of heart, won 
the affections of JMr. Rolfe, a young and respectable plant- 
er. He succeeded in producing a reciprocal attachment. 
They were married with the consent of Powhatan. The 
consequence of this marriage was peace with her father, 
and with all the tribes who stood in awe of his power. 

29. Rolfe and his princess made a voyage to England, 
where she was received by the king and queen with the 
attention due to her rank. For her virtues, and her dis- 
interested services, she was universally beloved and re- 
spected. She died when about to return to America, 
leaving one son, from whom are descended some of the 
most respectable families in Virginia. 

30. In 1613, captain Argal was sent, with a naval force, 



VIRGINIA. 21 

to drive the French from the settlements they had begun 
in Acadia, which were considered to be within the hmits 
of North Virginia. He accomphshed the object of the 
expedition, and when returning, visited a Dutch trading 
estabhshment on Hudson's river, which was also within 
the same limits. The governor, too feeble to resist, ac- 
knowledged himself subject to the king of England. 

31. The king, in his instructions given at the time of 
the first emigration to Jamestown, directed that all the 
land should be owned in common, and that the produce of 
the labor of all should be deposited in the public stores. 
In such circumstances, no one would labor with the same 
steadiness and animation as if he, and he alone, was to 
possess and enjoy the fruit of his industry. A different 
regulation was now adopted. To each inhabitant, three 
acres of land were assigned in full property, and he was 
permitted to employ, in the cultivation of it, a certain 
portion of his time. The effects of this alteration were 
immediately visible, and demonstrated so clearly its wis- 
dom, that soon after another assignment of fifty acres was 
made; and the plan of working in a common field, to fill 
the pubhc stores, was entirely abandoned. 

32. Since the year 1611, the colony had been governed 
by martial law, which was administered by deputy-gov- 
ernor Argal, with so much ri^or as to excite universal 
discontent. The council in England, hstening to the 
complaints of the Virginians, appointed Mr. Yeardly 
governor, and instructed him to inquire into and redress 
their wrongs. He arrived in x^pril, 1619, and immediately, 
to the great joy of the inhabitants, called a general as- 
sembly of the colony. It met at Jamestown, on the 19th 
of June, and was composed of delegates from the boroughs, 
then amounting to seven. They, the governor, and the 
council, sat ana deliberated in the same apartment, and 
acted as one body. 

33. Emigrants continued to arrive frequently from Eng- 
land; but nearly all were men, who came for the purpose, 
of obtaining wealth, and intended eventually to return. 
With such views, they were evidently less useful to the 
colony than if they should be induced to regard it as their 
home, and as the abode of their posterity. To produce 
this desirable attachment to the country, ninety girls, 
young and uncorrupt, were sent over in the year 1620, and 
eixty more in the subsequent year, and immediately sold 
to the young planters as wives. The price was, at first, 

C 



22 VIRGINIA. 

one hundred, and afterwards, one hundred and fifty pounds 
of tobacco, then sellino' at three shilhnf^s the pound; and 
it was ordained, that debts, contracted for wives, should 
be paid in preference to all others. 

34. About the same time, another measure, of a differ- 
ent character, was adopted. The company were ordered 
by the king to transport to Virginia one hundred idle and 
dissolute persons, then in custody for their offences 
They were distributed through the colony, and employed 
as laborers. 

35. A Dui en vessel also brought into James rivertwenty 
Africans, who were immediately purchased as slaves. 
This was the commencement, in the Enghsh American 
colonies, of a traffic abhorrent to humanity, disgraceful to 
civihzation, and fixing the foulest stain upon the character 
of the a^e and people. 

36. 1 he colony was now in the full tide of prosperity. 
Its numbers had greatly increased, and its settlements 
were widely extended. At peace with the Indians, it re- 
posed in perfect security, and enjoyed without alloy aL 
the happiness which its fortunate situation and favorable 
prospects afforded. It was doomed to experience a re- 
verse of fortune, sudden, distressing, and terrible. 

37. Powhatan, the friend of the English, was dead. 
Opecancanough, a chief endowed with all those qualities 
which give rank and reputation to an Indian warrior, had 
succeeded him in his influence and power; but he was 
the secret and implacable enemy of the whites. By his 
art and eloquence, he united all the neighboring tribes in 
the horrible design of destroying every man, woman, and 
child, in tlie English settlements. 

38. The plan was concerted and matured, with all the 
secrecy and dissimulation which characterize the savages. 
While intent on their plot, they visited the settlements, 
lodged in the houses, bought arms of the English, and even 
borrowed their boats to enable them to accomplish their 
barbarous purpose. 

39. On the evening before the fatal day, they brought 
them presents of game ; and the next morning came freely 
among them, behaving as usual. Suddenly, precisely at 
mid-day, the blow fell, at the same instant, upon the un- 
suspecting settlers ; and three hundred and forty-seven 
men,women and children,were victims to savage treachery 
and cruelty. The massacre would have been niore ex- 
tensive had not a domesticated Indian, residing in one of 



VIRGINIA. 23 

the villages, revealed the plot to his master, whom he had 
been solicited to murder. Information was instantly given 
to some of the nearest settlements, and just in time to 
save them from the calamity which fell upon the others. 

40. The horrid spectacle before them roused the Eng- 
lish from repose to vengeance. A vindictive and exter- 
minating war succeeded. The whites were victorious, 
destroying many of their enemies, and obliging the re- 
mainder to retire far into the wilderness. But their own 
number melted away before the miseries of war ; their 
settlements were reduced from eighty to eight, and famine 
again visited them with its afflicting scourge. In 1624, 
out of nine thousand persons, who had been sent from 
England, 'but eighteen hundred existed in the colony. 

41. Thpse continued misfortunes attracted the atten- 
tion of king James, and he despatched commissioners to 
Virginia to enquire into the state of the plantation. But 
before their return, judicial proceedings were institu- 
ted which resulted in a judgment that the charter should 
be cancelled. He then appointed, provisionally, a gov- 
ernor and council, but died before he had perfected a 
plan for the future government of the colony. 

42. In 1625, his successor, Charles I., issued a procla- 
mation in which, after declaring that the colony now de- 
pended immediately on himself, he announced his resolu- 
tion that all the tobacco raised in Virginia should be sent 
to his agent to be sold ; but this resolution was never en- 
forced. In 1628, Sir .John Harvey was appointed gover- 
nor. He was before known in the colony, and was un- 
popular ; was haughty and rapacious; and in the exer- 
cise of his authority consulted only his own interests and 
those of his partizans. Incensed by his selfish and arbi- 
trary conduct, the council, in 1635, suspended him from 
his office until the king's pleasure should be known; and 
two delegates were sent to England to support the char- 
ges against him. 

48. The king refusedtosee the delegates and restored 
the governor. He was, however, in 1639,, suspended by 
the appointment of Sir Francis Wright; and he, in 1641, 
was succeeded by Sir William Berkeley. The emi- 

f grants to Virginia were principally members of the estab- 
ished church, and those who had recently come had 
brought with them prejudices embittered and attachments 
strengthened by the angry discussions then prevailing in 
England. In 1643, an act was passed forbidding any but 



24 VIRGINIA. 

ministers of that church from preaching, and banishing 
non-conformists from the colony. 

44. During the civil wars in England, the colony con- 
tinued loyal to the king ; and after the execution of 
Charles I., in 1649, his son, then in exile, was acknowl- 
edged as sovereign of Virginia. But the parliament, the 
next year, empowered the council of state to reduce the 
rebellious colonies to obedience. A squadron was ac- 
cordingly despatched against them, and those in the West 
Indies naving been reduced, a part of it was sent against 
Virginia. Preparations for defence were made, and they 
appeared so formidable, on the arrival of the ships, to the 
commissioners on board, that favorable terms of capitula- 
tion were granted. Sir William Berkeley, though depri- 
ved of power, continued to reside in the colony. 

45. For nine years, Virginia remained subject to the 
commonwealth. According to her early historians, her 
governors were appointed by Cromwell, and his rule over 
ner was partial and oppressive ; but it has been ascer- 
tained, by recent investigation, that her governors were 
chosen by her own legislature, and no proof has been dis- 
covered that he ever interfered to her injury in the admin- 
istration of her affairs. 

46. But a preference for the royal cause must have 
been felt by a large portion of the people, for, upon the 
death of governor Matthews, Sir William Berkeley, in 
March, 1660, was elected governor of Virginia ; and an 
act was passed, soon afterwards, providing for a revision 
of the laws, with the view, as the assembly declared, of 
expunging all unnecessary acts, and especially such as 
might "keep in memory their forced deviation from his 
majesty's obedience." 

47. Charles II. confirmed Sir William Berkeley in the 
office of governor ; but with characteristic ingratitude, he 
neglected the interests of the colony, and even imposed 
additional restrictions upon its commerce. He also 
granted to his favorites large tracts of land which belong- 
ed to the colony. These injuries, inflicted by a hand 
which ought to have bestowed favors, wounded the feel- 
ings of the Virginians, and produced murmurs and com- 
plaints. No relief being granted, an open and turbulent 
msurrection was the consequence. 

48. At the head of the insurgents was Nathaniel Bacon. 
He was a lawyer, educated in London, and was appointed 
a member of the council, a short time after his emigration 
to Virginia. He was young, bold, ambitious ; his person 



VIRGINIA. 25 

engaging, and his elocjuence commanding. He harangued 
the citizens upon their g-rievances ; inflamed their resent- 
ment against their rule rs ; declaimed particularly against 
the languor with which tJie war, then existing with the 
Indians, had been conducted; and such was the effect of his 
representations, that he was elected general by the people. 

49. He apphed to the governor for a commission con- 
firming this election, and offered instantly to march, at the 
head of the citizens, against the savages. Sir William 
indignantly refused, and issued a proclamation command- 
ing the insurgents to disperse. Bacon had advanced too 
far to recede with honor or safety. He hastened, at the 
head of six hundred armed follov/ers, to Jamestown, sur- 
rounded the house where the governor and council were 
assembled, and repeated his demand. 

50. The council, intimidated by the threats of the en- 
raged multitude, hastily prepared a commission, and, by 
their entreaties, prevailed on the governor to sign it. Ba- 
con and his troops then began their march against the 
Indians. But the council, when relieved from their fears, 
declared the commission void, and proclaimed hiin a rebel, 
flnraged at this conduct, ho instantly returned, with all 
his forces, to Jamestown. The governor fled, tlie council 
dispersed, and he found himself in possession of supreme 
power. To give it some show of legality, he called togeth- 
er the most considerable gentlemen in the colony, who 
bound themselves by oath to support his authority. 

51. Some districts remained faithful to Berkeley, who 
collected forces, and made inroads into those sections 
where Bacon's authority was recognised. The latter 
retaliated, and for some months, a civil war, with all its 
necuHar horrors, raged in Virginia. Jamestown was 
Durned, and some of the finest and best cultivated districts 
were laid waste. 

52. King Charles, informed of the situation of affairs, 
despatched a bony of troops to ^:he assistance of Berkeley. 
Bacon and his followers, unintimldated by their approach, 
determined to oppose them; but when prepared to take 
the field, this daring and successful leader, having exer- 
cised the supreme power for seven months, sickened and 
died; and no person being found among the insurgents 
qualified to supply iiis place, as the general of an army 
or as a popular leader, they laid down their arms and 
dispersed. 

53. Governor Berkeley again assumed the supremo 



26 MASSACHUSETTS. 

authority, and finding the rebels in his power, pursued 
them with unsparing rigor. Many were tried by courts 
martial, and executed. The assembly interfered, praying 
him to stop the work of death, and enacted laws which 
gradually restored tranquility. Soon after, sir William 
returned to England, and his authority devolved on colonel 
Jeffreys, the lieutenant-governor. Under his administra- 
tion, peace was concluded with the Indians ; and notwith- 
standing the tyrannical regulations of the king, and the 
oppressive restrictions upon commerce, the colony in- 
creased in wealth and population. In the year 1688, the 
number of inhabitants exceeded 00,000. 

54. Between this period and the commencement of the 
French war of 1756, an account of which will be found in 
a subsequent chapter, but few events occurred in the 
colony of sufficient importance to find a place in history 
Its position, remote from the settlements of the French in 
Canada, and of the Spaniards in Florida, was favorable to 
its quiet. New England and New York, on the one hand, 
Georgia and the Carolinas on the other, protected it from 
savage incursions. Its affairs were admmistered by gov- 
ernors appointed by the king, and representatives chosen 
by the people. 

'55. The laudable efforts of these representatives, to 
arrest the progress of slavery in the colony, ought not to 
be passed over in silence. Convinced of its inhumanity, 
and foreseeing the dreadful evils which it must produce, 
they often passed laws prohibiting the importation of 
slaves ; but those who were higher in authority, yielding 
to the wishes of merchants engaged in the abominable 
traffic, persisted, with criminal obstinacy, in withholding 
their assent. England, not America, is responsible for 
the wretchedness which her kings and her officers were 
often importuned, but refused, to avert. 



CHAPTER II. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

Of the two companies incorporated by king James, an 
account of the proceedings and dissolution of one, and a 
history of the colony it founded, have been given in the 
preceding chapter. To the other, or Plymoutli Company, 



MASSACHUSETTS. 27 

was assigned a portion of the American continent lying 
farther to the north, and at that time called North Virgmia. 

2. The latter, in 1606, the year in which both were in- 
corporated, despatched a ship to make discoveries within 
the limits of its grant. Before the voyage was completed, 
she was captured by the Spaniards. Another ship, af- 
terwards sent for the same purpose, returned with such 
a favorable account of the territory, that the company 
vi^as encouraged to proceed in the undertaking. 

3. The next year, forty-five men were sent over and left 
at the mouth of the river Kennebec. In 1608, dispirited 
by the hardships they had endured, they returned to Eng- 
land in ships which had brought them provisions and suc- 
cors. The company, disappovntcd and dissatisfied, desist- 
ed for a while from all attempts to effect a settlement. 

4. In 1614, John Smith, the same who acted a conspic- 
uous part in the settlement of Virginia, made a voyage 
to this northern country, touching first at the mouth of the 
Kennebec. Sailing thence, in an open boat, he surveyed 
the coast to the southern boundary of Massachusetts bay. 
The northern promontory he named Tragabigzanda, m 
honor of tlie Turkish lady to whom he had formerly been 
a slave. The three small islands, lying near the head 
of the promontory, he called the Three Turks' Heads, in 
memory of his victory over the three Turkish champions. 
Both appellations have been changed for others. On his 
return to England, he presented to prince Charles a map 
of the country, and gave him such a glowing description 
of its beauty and excellence, that he, in the warmth of 
his admiration, declared it should bear the name of New 
England. 

5. Smith afterwards made an attempt to transport a col- 
ony thither, which was unsuccessful; and New England 
miglit long have remained the abode of wild beasts and 
savages only, had not motives, more powerful than the 
love of gain or of perilous adventures, impelled men^ 
differing from all otliers who had been the founders of 
colonies, to select it as the place of their residence. 

6. In the beginning of the seventeenth century, James 
I. asserted ana maintained a despotic power over the 
consciences of his English subjects. All who presumed 
to dissent from the creed which he had adopted were 
persecuted with extreme rigor. In that age, the maxim 
\yas avowed by ecclesiastics of all sects, as well as poli- 
ticians, that uniformity in religion was essential to the 



28 MASSACHUSETTS. 

repose of society, and that it was therefore the right and 
duty of every sovereign to preserve it in his dominions, by 
the exercise of all his powers of restraint and punishment. 
7. But free inquiry had lately received such an impulse 
from the success of Luther and the other reformers, that 
the civil authority was unable to arrest or control it. 
Various sects arose, dissenting from the estabhshed re- 
ligion, and all distinguished by their democratic tenets 
respecting church government. Persecuted at home, a 
small number, belonging to the sect which were after- 
wards called Independents, removed to Leyden, in Hol- 
land, where they formed a distinct society under the care 
of their pastor, the Rev. John Robinson. By their rigid 
virtues and exemplary deportment, they acquired the 
respect of the magistrates and citizens. 

_ 8. After residing several years in that city, various con- 
siderations induced them to resolve to leave it. In 1618, 
tJiey applied to the London, or South Virginia, Company, 
for a grant of land in America; and to ensure success, 
they observed, "that they were well weaned from the 
delicate milk of the mother country, and inured to the 
difficulties of a strange land; thatthey were knit together 
by a strict and sacred bond, by virtue of which they held 
themselves bound to take care of the good of each other 
and of the whole ; that it was not with them as with other 
men, whom small things could discourage, or small dis- 
contents cause to wish themselves home again." 

9. A grant was obtained, and in Septembe° , 1620, a part 
of them set sail for Hudson's river; but the master of the 
ship, bribed, it is said, by the Dutch, who claimed the 
sole right of trading in that quarter, carried them farther 
north; and the first land they discovered was Cape Cod, 
This, the^ were aware, was beyond the limits of the 
London Company, but it was now November, and too 
late in the season to put again to sea. They therefore 
determined to land at the first place they could find 
suitable for a settlement. 

10. Before leaving the ship, the heads of famihes and 
freemen, forty-one in number, signed a solemn covenant, 
combining themselves into a body pohtic for the purpose 
of making equal laws for the general good. They or- 
dained that a governor and assistants should be annually 
chosen; but the sovereign power remained in the whole 
body of freemen. John Carver was elected governor. 

11. On the 11th of December, [O. S.,] they landed on a 



MASSACHUSETTS. 29 

desolate coast. Sterile sands and gloomy forests were the 
only objects that met their view. The severity of the 
cold, greater than they had ever experienced, admonished 
them to seek protection against it ; and their first employ- 
ment was the erection of huts in the most convenient and 
sheltered situations. In these miserable abodes they 
passed the winter, those at least who survived it. By the 
succeeding spring, one half of their number had perished, 
exhausted by continual sufiering, and by the privation of 
every worldly comfort which they had been accustomed 
to enjoy. 

12. Their settlement was found to be within the limits 
of the Plymouth Company, from which they solicited and 
obtained agrantofland; buttheywere never incorporated 
by the king. They called the place New Plymouth. 
They often received small additions to their number, 
which, in 1630, amounted to three hundred. 

13. In the mean time, the same causies that drove Mr. 
Robinson and his congregation from England had contin- 
ued to operate. A class of dissenters, denominated puritans 
from the austerity of their manners, and from their claims 
to superior purity in worship and discipline, had become 
numerous ; and as, by their new mode of worship, they 
violated the laws of the land, they were prosecuted as 
criminals. Their faith was confirmed and their zeal in- 
creased by their sufferings; and having learned that 
complete religious freedom was enjoyed at New Plymouth 
in America ,they naturally directed their thonghts to that 
country, as a secure asylum from persecution. 

14. in 1627, an association of puritans, residing at Dor- 
chester and the vicinity, was formed for the purpose of 
planting a colony in New England, to which they and their 
brethren might repair, and, m seclusion and safety, wor- 
ship God according to the dictates of conscience. They 
obtained from the Plymouth Company a grant of the ter- 
ritory which now constitutes a part of the state of Massa- 
chusetts, and sent over, under the direction of John En- 
dicott, a small number of people, to begin a plantation. 
These, in September, landed at a place called, by the 
Indians, Naumkeak, and, by themselves, Salem. 

15. The next year, they obtained a charter from the 
crown, by which the usual powers of a corporation were 
conferred upon the grantees, by the name of thy "Governor 
and Company of Massachusetts Bay, in New England." 
It ordained, that the officers of the company should be a 



80 MASSACHUSETTS. 

fovernor, a deputy-governor, and eighteen assistants, to 
e named, in the first instance, by the crown, and after- 
wards elected by the corporation. Four stated meetings 
of all the members were to be held annually, under the 
denomination of the General Court, at which they were 
authorized to admit freemen or members, and to make 
such ordinances or laws, not repugnant to the laws of 
England, as they might deem expedient. The colonists, 
and their descendants, were declared to be entitled to all 
the rights of natural born English subjects. 

16. At a General Court, held at London, in 1629, the 
officers prescribed by the charter were elected, and seve- 
ral ordinances were adopted for the government of the 
company. Three hundred people were sent over, of whom 
one hundred, dissatisfied with the situation of Salem, re- 
moved to Charlestown. Religion was the first object of 
their care in the country they had adopted. A religious 
covenant was agreed upon, and a confession of faith drawn 
up, to which their assent was given. Pastors were chosen, 
and were, from necessity, installed into their sacred offices 
by the imposition of the hands of the brethren. 

17. The ensuing winter was a period of uncommon 
suffering and sickness. The cold was intense; the 
houses were unfinished; the provisions were insufficient 
and unwholesome. Before spring, nearly half their 
number perished, "lamenting that they could not live to 
see the rising glories of the faithful." 

18. These calamities had some effect in deterring others 
from joining them ; but the consideration that the general 
courts were held, the officers elected, and the laws 
enacted, in London, had stiU greater influence. It did not 
comport with the views and feelings of those who disdained 
to submit to authority in matters of faith, to consent to 
remove to the new world, and there be governed by laws 
which they could have no part in enacting. Representa- 
tions to this effect were made to the company, who re- 
solved that the government and patent should be removed 
to Massachusetts, 

19. This wise resolution gave such encouragement to 
emigration, that, in 1630, more than fifteen hundred per- 
sons came over, and founded Boston and several adjacent 
towns. Of these persons, all were respectable, and many 
were from illustrious and noble families. Having been 
accustomed to a life of ease and enjoyment, their sufferings, 
the first year, were great, and proved fatal to many ; amongf 



MASSACHUSETTS. 31 

others, to the lady Arabella, who, to use the words of an 
early historian of the country, " came from a paradise of 
plenty and pleasure, in the family of a noble earl, into a 
wilderness of wants ; and although celebrated for her 
many virtues, yet was not able to encounter the adversity 
she was surrounded with; and, in about a month after 
her arrival, she ended her days at Salem, where she first 
landed." Mr. Johnson, her husband, overcome with 
grief, survived her but a short time. 

20. Before December two hundred perished. On the 
24th of that month, the cold became intense. Such a 
Christmas-eve they had never before known. Yet the in- 
clemency of the weather continued to increase. They 
were almost destitute of provisions, and many were 
obliged to subsist on clams, muscles, and other shell fish, 
with nuts and acrons instead of bread. Many more died ; 
but in this extremity, that ardor of conviction which 
compelled them to emigrate, remained in full force, and 
they met, with a firm, unshaken spirit, the calamities 
which assailed them. 

21. One great object of the puritans, in retiring to the 
unoccupied regions of New England, was the establish- 
ment of a rehgious c9mmonwealth, as nearly upon the 
model of that of the Jews as the difference of circum- 
stances would admit. To accompHsh this object, they 
deemed it necessary, and at a general court, held in 1631, 
they ordained, that none but those who had made a pro- 
fession of rehgion, and had become members of some 
church, should be admitted members of the corporation, 
or enjoy the privilege of voting. 

22. This law has been too severely censured by those 
who have lived in more liberal and enlightened times. 
It contradicted none of the professions of the puritans. It 
was in strict accordance with the avowed motives of their 
emigration. It exhibited less intolerance than was then 
displayed by every other nation. It violated the rights of 
no one, for no one could cl-'.im a right to come hito the 
territory which tliey had purchased. And it was doubt- 
less essential, such wastlien the temper of men's minds, 
to the repose of their little society. 

23. The colonists had frequently been alarmed, but nev- 
er yet attacked by the Indians. These were not, in fact, 
in a condition to ao much injury. A few years before the 
arrival of the English, a contagious distemper swept away 
a great number, almost exterminating several tribes, hi 



32 MASSACHUSETTS. 

1633, the small pox destroyed many who had survived the 
pestilence ; and the territory, contiguous to the first set- 
tlements of the EngUsh, seemed to have been providen- 
tially made vacant for their reception. As an attack from 
this quarter was, however, possible, and as the French, 
who had a trading establishment at Acadia, had discovered 
some symptoms of hostility, it was thought advisable to 
erect fortifications at Boston, and other places, and to open 
a correspondence with their neighbors at New Plymouth. 

24. So far from the capital had the settlements extend- 
ed, that it was found extremely inconvenient for all the 
freemen to assemble and transact the necessary public 
business. In 1634, the mode of legislation was altered, 
by the general consent of the towns. They delegated to 
twenty,four representatives the authority granted, by the 
charter, to the whole body of freemen. This important 
alteration was adopted the more readily, as the emigrants 
had been familiar, m their native country, with the repre- 
sentative system. The appellation of General Court, 
which had been applied to all the freemen when assembled, 
was now transferred to their representatives. 

25. In the next year, Roger Williams, the minister of 
Salem, having occasioned disturbances, by advancing 
tenets considered not only heretical but seditious, and 
being found irreclaimable, was ordered to leave the colony. 
He retired to Rehoboth, which was then within the juris- 
diction of Plvmouth. 

26. In 1635, Massachusetts received from England a 
large number of inhabitants ; and among them came two 
who afterwards acted conspicuous parts in the affairs of 
their native country. One was Hugh Peters, who was 
subsequently a chaplain of Oliver Cromwell; the other 
was Mr. Vane, afterwards sir Henry Vane. The latter 
was but twenty-five years of age ; but by his show of great 
humility, his grave and solemn deportment, and his ardent 
professions of attachment to liberty, he stole the hearts 
of the puritans, and, the year after his arrival, was made 
governor of the colony. 

27. His popularity, however, was transient. During 
his administration, the celebrated Mrs. Hutchinson, a 
woman who was distinguished for her eloquence, and 
had imbibed the enthusiasm of the age, instituted weekly 
meetings for persons of her own sex, in which she com- 
menteaon the sermons of the preceding Sunday, and ad- 
vanced certain mystical and extravagant doctrines. These 



MASSACHUSETTS. 33 

spread rapidly among the people, and many became con- 
verts. 

28. Governor Vane, with Mr. Cotton and Mr. Wheel- 
wright, two distinguished clergymen, embraced them with 
ardor ; but lieutenant-governor Winthrop, and a majority 
of the churches, deemed them heritical and seditious. 
Great excitement was produced among the people ; many 
conferences were held; public fasts were appointed; a 
general synod was summoned ; and after much intemper- 
ate discussion, her opinions were determined to be erro- 
neous, and she and some of her adherents were banished 
from the colony. 

29. Not bein^ again chosen governor, Vane returned in 
disgust to England, engaged in the civil wars, which soon 
after afflicted that country, sustained high ojffices in the 
republican party, and after the restoration of Charles II., 
was accused of high treason, convicted and executed. 
Peters pursued a similar career,and met with the same fate. 

30. in such high repute, at this time, were the settle- 
ments in Massachusetts, that other Englishmen, still more 
conspicuous, had contemplated leaving their native land, 
that they might enjoy, in a desert, the civil and religious 
liberty which was denied them at home. Among these 
were Mr. Hambden, Sir Arthur Haselrig, and Oliver 
Cromwell ; but a proclamation issued by king Charles 
prohibited all emigration without previous licence. Far 
better would it have been for him had he encouraged the 
departure from his kingdom of those restless votaries of 
freedom who were destined to bring his head to the block. 

31. By the settlement of Massachusetts, the attention 
of emigrants was diverted from the colony of Plymouth, 
where the soil was less fertile. It nevertheless continued 
to increase, although slowly, in population. In 1633, the 
government of that colony built a trading house, near 
Hartford, which was the first building erected within the 
boundaries of Connecticut. Soon after, many persons 
repaired thither from Massachusetts. In 1636, Roger 
Williams laid the foundation of Rhode Island. Subsequent- 
ly, New Hampshire and New Haven were founded, which 
increased to nve the number of colonies in New England. 

_ 32. The rapid progress of the English settlements ex- 
cited the jealousy of the natives. They had welcomed, 
without fear, the emigrants who first landed, not antici- 
pating their future encroachments. The experience of a 



34 MASSACHUSETTS. 

few years convinced them that they must either extermi- 
nate these invaders of their country, or be themselves 
exterminated. 

33. Within the boundaries of Rhode Island and Con- 
necticut, lived two warlike tribes, th^ Pequods and Nar- 
ragansets. The former were hostile, the latter friendly, 
to the whites. Between the two tribes an inveterate 
enmity existed ; but the more sagacious and poUtic Pequods 
proposed that all animosities should be forgotten, and their 
united strength directed against their invaders, before 
they had become too strong to be resisted. At first the 
Narragansets wavered; but their hatred of the Pequods 
overpowered the suggestions of poUcy. They disclosed 
the proposal to the English, and invited them to join in a 
war against their common enemy. 

34. The colonies were roused to a sense of their dan- 
ger. In 1637, Massachusetts, Plymouth, and Connecticut, 
agreed to unite their forces, and attempt the entire de- 
struction of the Pequods. Captain Mason, with eighty 
men, principally from Connecticut, and three hundred 
friendly Indians, was immediately sent into the country 
of the enemy. Early in the morning of the 26th of May, 
he attacked one of the principal villages, which had been 
surrounded with palisades. The resistance was brave 
and obstinate, and the issue of the battle for some time 
doubtful; but the whites, forcing their way into the en- 
closure, set fire to the wigwams, and then, retreating a 
short distance, surrounded the town. Many of the In- 
dians perished in the flames; others were shot, in their 
attempts to flee. Of five or six hundred, witliin the 
enclosure, but few escaped. The English troops, of 
whom two were kiUed and sixteen wounded, returned in 
triumph to Hartford. 

35. In June, another body of troops, principally from 
Massachusetts, marched into the enemy's country, sur- 
rounded a swamp, into which a party of them had retired, 
and took eighty captive. Some escaping, they were pur- 
sued to another swamp, situated near New Haven, where 
the whole strength of the tribe was collected. This was, 
in like manner, surrounded; a sharp contest ensued; but 
the whites were again victorious. Two hundred Pequods 
were killed or made prisoners. The remainder fled to the 
country of the Mohawks. The brilliant success of the 
English, in this first and short war with the natives, gave 



MASSACHUSETTS. 35 

the neighboring tribes such an exalted idea of their 
prowess, that for nearly forty years, they were neither 
attacked nor molested. 

36. Ten years had now elapsed since the first settle- 
ment was made at Salem. It has been computed that, 
within that time, twenty-one thousand persons arrived in 
Massachusetts. The dissenters in England having ob- 
tained the ascendency in the government, all motives for 
emigration ceased ; and it is supposed that, for many years 
afterwards, more persons returned to England, than 
came from England to the colonies. 

37. Such, however, were the character and virtues of 
the emigrants ; such the power over difficulties which 
their resolute minds, and bodies hardened by labor, had 
imparted to them, that they continued to increase, with 
astonishing rapidity, in wealth and numbers. And a vote 
of the house of commons, stating that "the plantations in 
New England had had good and prosperous success, 
without any public charge to the state," is (quoted, by a 
historian of those times, as an honorable testimony of the 
high merit of the colonists. 

^8. Circumstances and events had already impressed a 
character upon them, which, though softened in its worst 
features by the progress of refinement, still distinguishes 
their descendants. Persecution made them bigots; piety 
made them moral; poverty made them frugal ; incessant 
toil made them hardy and robust ; dreary solitudes made 
them gloomy and superstitious ; their numerous clergy 
and well-educated leaders made them venerate literature 
and the sciences. 

39. Four of the New England colonies, Massachusetts, 
Connecticut, Plymouth, and New Haven, apprehending 
danger from the Indians, from the Dutch, at New York, 
and from the French, at Acadia, formed, in 1643, a firm and 
perpetual league, offensive and defensive. By the articles 
of this league, each colony waste appoint two commission- 
ers, who were to assemble, by rotation, in the respective col- 
onies, and were empowered to enact ordinances of general 
concern ; and in case of invasion, each colony was bound, 
upon the application of three magistrates of the invaded 
colony, to furnish a stipulated proportion of men and money. 

40. Strengthened by this league, the colonies were re- 
spected by tneir civilized and savage neighbors. With 
the French, under D'Aulney, Massachusetts had a long" 
and troublesome dispute ; which was adjusted, in 1644, by 

d 



36 MASSACHUSETTS. 

a treaty made by governor Endicott, and afterwards ratified 
by the commissioners. 

41. When representatives were first chosen, they sat 
and voted in the same chamber with the assistants. In 
1635, when Mr. Hooker appHed for permission to form a 
eettlement on Connecticut river, a majority of the assist- 
ants voted against granting permission; but a majority of 
the whole assembly in favor of it. The representatives 
contended that a majority of the assistants was not neces- 
sary, and that the vote had passed in the affirmative. 
The assistants claimed to be a distinct branch of the legis- 
lature, and contended that it had passed in the negative. 

42. No provision having been made for a case of this 
kind, an adjournment, for a week, took place ; a public fast 
was appointed, and the divine direction implored in all the 
congregations. When the assembly again met, a sermon 
was preached, by Mr. Cotton, which mduced the repre- 
sentatives to yield to the claim of the assistants. In 1644, 
the dispute was renewed, and the assistants were again 
victorious. The representatives then proposed that the 
two classes should sit apart, and form distinct bodies, and 
in this proposition the assistants concurred. 

43. The contest between the king and parliament at 
length resulted in open war ; and the New England colo- 
nies, actuated by the same feelings as the puritans in Eng- 
land, embraced, with ardor, the cause of the latter. The 
parliament rewarded this attachment by exempting them 
from all taxes ; and when the supreme authority devolved 
upon Cromwell, as protector of the liberties of England, 
they found in him a friend no less sincere and zealous. 

44. After the conquest of Ireland, he invited them to 
return and settle in that country ; and, subsequently, hav- 
ing conquered Jamaica, he endeavored to persuade them to 
remove to that fertile island, and more genial chmate. But 
his arguments and solicitations were unavailing. They 
enjoyed, in their present abode, complete religious free- 
dom, and that privilege they were unwilling to hazard in 
pursuit of advantages less essential to their happiness. 

45. In 1641, the settlements of New Hampshire were 
incorporated with Massachusetts. And, in 1652, the in- 
habitants of the province of Maine were, at their own 
request, taken under her protection. This province had 
been granted to sir Ferdinand Gorges, who, in 1639, first 
established a government over it. In 1640, a general 
court was held at Saco. Upon the death of the proprietor, 



MASSACHUSETTS. 37 

in 1649, most of the officers whom he had appointed, 
deserted it, and the people found it necessary to resort 
elsewhere for protection. 

46. In 1656, several Quakers arrived in the colony. In 
this age of enthusiasts, these sectarians partook of the 
all-pervading enthusiasm. The behavior of some of 
them, moved as they doubtless supposed by a divine im- 
pulse, gave great offence to the rigid puritans. For their 
conduct, inconsistent with the high respect which was 
thought to be due to magistrates and ministers, they were 
first imprisoned and then banished. A law was passed 
prohibiting Quakers from coming into the colony, imposing 
the penalty of banishment upon the first offence, and of 
death upon such as should return after banishment. Four, 
who were so excited as to return and obtrude themselves 
upon the notice of the government, suffered the death 
which they appeared to seek. This cruel, unjust, and 
impolitic law was soon afterwards repealed. 

47. Cromwell, who had governed England with greater 
ability and higher merits than most of her kings, died in 
1658, and after an interval of two years, Charles 11^ a 
prince destitute of honor and virtue, was recalled from 
exile, and placed upon the throne. He was reluctantly 
acknowledged by the colonies of New England. They 
had been the favorites of the parliament and the protec- 
tor, and apprehended, with good reason, tne loss of their 
civil and religious privileges. 

48. A short time after, Whalley and Goffe, two of the 
judges who had sentenced Charles I. to be beheaded, hav- 
ing fled before the return of his successor, arrived in New 
England. Their first place of residence was Cambridge ; 
but they often appeared publicly in Boston, particularly 
on Sundays and other days of religious solemnities. They 
had sustained high rank in Cromwell's army, were men 
of uncommon talents, and by their dignified manners and 
grave deportment, commanded universal respect. 

49. As soon as it was known that they were excepted 
from the general pardon, the governor suggested to the 
court of assistants the expediency of arresting them. A 
majority opposed it, and many members of the general 
court gave them assurances of protection. Considering 
themselves, however, unsafe at Cambridge, they removed 
to New Haven, where they were received with great 
respect by the clergy and magistrates. 

50. After. a short residence there, enjoying, in private^ 



38 MASSACHUSETTS. 

the society of their friends, the governor of Massachusetts 
received a mandate to arrest them. A warrant was im- 
mediately issued, authorizing two zealous loyalists to 
search for, and seize them, wherever found, in New Eng- 
land. They hastened to the. colony of New Haven, ex- 
hibited the warrant to the governor, who resided at Guil- 
ford, and requested him to furnish authority and assistants 
to pursue them. Desirous of favoring the exiles, he affect- 
ed to deliberate until the next morning, and then utterly 
declined acting officially, without the advice of his council/ 

51. In the mean time, they were apprized of their dan- 
ger, and retired to a new place of concealment. The pur- 
suers, on arriving at New Haven, searched every sus- 
pected house, except the one where the judges were con- 
cealed. This they began to search, but were induced, by 
the address of the mistress of it, to • desist. When the 
pursuers had departed, the judges, retiring into the woods, 
fixed their abode in a cave. 

52. Having there heard that their friends were threat- 
ened with punishment, for having afforded them protection, 
they came from their hiding place for the purpose of de- 
livering themselves up; but their friends, actuated by 
feelings equally noble and generous, persuaded them to 
relinquish their intention. Soon after, they removed to 
Milford, where they remained about two years. 

53. Upon the arrival of other persons, instructed to 
apprehend them, they repaired privately to Hadley, in 
Massachusetts, where they resided fifteen or sixteen 
years, but few persons being acquainted with the place 
of their concealment. There is, in that neighborhood, a 
tradition, that many years afterwards, two graves were 
discovered in the minister's cellar; and in these, it was 
supposed, they had been interred. At New Haven, two 
graves are shown, said to be those of the two judges. It 
is not improbable that their remains were removed to this 
place from Hadley. 

54. A singular incident which occurred at the latter 

Elace, in 1675, shows that one of these illustrious exiles 
ad not forgotten the avocations of his youth. The people, 
at the time of public worship, were alarmed by an attack 
from the Indians, and thrown into the utmost confusion. 
Suddenly, a grave, elderly person appeared, differing in hia 
mien and dress from all around him. He put himself at 
their head, raUied, encouraged, and led them against the 
enemy, who were repulsed and completely defeated. As 
euddenly,.the delivererof Hadley disappeared. The people 



MASSACHUSETTS. 39 

were lost in amazement, and many verily believed that 
an an^l sent from heaven had led them to victory. 

55. xheir treatment of the king's judges, and in truth 
all their conduct, evinced the republican spirit of the colo- 
nists. By the royal government of England, they could 
not, therefore, be regarded with favor. In 1663, it was 
enacted that no European commodity should be imported 
into the colonies, unless shipped directly from England, 
and in British vessels. By this regulation, in connection 
with others that had been previously made, aU the trade 
of the colonies was secured to the mother country. They 
submitted reluctantly to these restrictions, and often made 
them the subject of complaint. But England, believing 
that they augmented her wealth and power, obstinately 
refused to repeal them. 

56. In 1664, the king despatched four commissioners 
to visit the several colonies m New England, to examine 
into their condition, to hear and decide complaints, and to 
make to him a report of their proceedings ana observations. 
This measure was dictated by no friendly motive, and was 
considered by the colonies as a violation of their charters. 

57. The first session of the commissioners was at 
Plymouth, where but httle business was transacted ; the 
next in Rhode Island, where they heard complaints from 
the Indians, and all who were discontented, and made 
divers determinations respecting titles to land, which were 
but little regarded. In Massachusetts, the general court 
complied with such of their requisitions as they thought 
proper; but, professing sincere loyalty to his majesty, 
declined acknowledging their authority, and protested 
against the exercise of it within their limits. 

58. In consequence of this manly assertion of their 
chartered rights, an angry correspondence took place be- 
tween them, at the close of which the commissioners 
petulantly told the general court, "that they would lose 
no more of their labors upon them," but would represent 
their conduci; to his majesty. 

59. From Boston, the commissioners proceeded to New 
Hampshire, where they exercised several acts of govern- 
ment, and offered to release the inhabitants from the juris- 
diction of Massachusetts. This offer was almost unani- 
mously rejected. In Maine, they excited more disturbance. 
They encouraged the people to declare themselves inde- 
pendent, and found many disposed to Usten to their sug- 
gestions ; but Massachusetts, by a prompt and vigorous 



40 MASSACHUSETTS. 

exertions of power, constrained the disaffected to submit 
to her authority. 

60. Connecticut appears to have been the favorite of the 
commissioners. She treated them with respect, and com- 
plied with their requisitions. In return, they made such 
a representation of her merits to the king-, as to draw from 
him a letter of thanks. "Although," says he, "your car- 
riage doth of itself most justly deserve our praise and ap- 
probation, yet it seems to be set otf with more lustre by 
the contrary behavior of the colony of Massachusetts." 

61. At the end of fifty years from the arrival of the 
emigrants at Plymouth, the New England colonies were 
supposed to contain one hundred and twenty towns, and 
as many thousand inhabitants. The acts of parhament 
not being rigidly enforced, their trade had become exten- 
sive and profitable. The habits of industry and economy, 
which had been formed in less happy times, continued to 
prevail, and gave a competency to those who had nothing, 
and wealth to those who had a competency. The wilder- 
ness receded before adventurous and hardy laborers, and 
its savage inhabitants found their game dispersed, and 
their favorite haunts invaded. 

62. This was the natural consequence of the sales of 
land, which were, at all times, readily made to the whites. 
But this consequence the Indians did not foresee ; and 
when they felt it in all its force, the strongest passions 
were awakened which can animate civilized or savage 
man, the love of country and of independence. 

63. A leader only was wanting to concentrate and direct 
their exertions, and Philip, of Pokanoket, sachem of a 
tribe living within the boundaries of Plymouth and Rhode 
Island, assumed that honorable, but dangerous, station. 
His father was the friend, but he had ever been the ene- 
my of the whites; and this enmity, arising from causes 
of national concern, had been embittered to vindictive 
hatred by their conduct towards his elder brother. This 
brother, being suspected of plotting against them, was 
seized by a detachment of soldiers, and confined ; and the 
indignity so wrought upon his proud spirit, as to produce 
a fever, that put an end to his life. 

64. Philip inherited the authority and proud spirit of his 
brother. He exerted all the arts of intrigue, and powers 
of persuasion, of which he was master, to induce the In- 
dians, in all parts of New England, to unite their efforts 
for the destruction of the whites. He succeeded in form- 



MASSACHUSETTS. 41 

ing a confederacy, able to send into action between three 
and four thousand warriors. 

65. The EngUsh were apprized of the plots of the In- 
dians, and made preparations to meet their hostilities. 
Thev hoped, however, that the threatened storm would 
pass by, as others had, and that peace would be preserved. 
But the insolence of Philip, and the number of his adhe- 
rents, increased daily; and, in June, 1675, some of them 
entered the town of' Swanzey, in Plymouth, where, after 
slaughtering- the cattle, and plundering- the houses, they 
fired upon the inhabitants, kiUing and wounding several. 

66. The troops of that colony marched immediately to 
Swanzey, and were soon joined by a detachment from 
Massachusetts. The Indians fled, and marked the course 
of their flight by burning the buildings, and flxing on 
poles, by the way side, the hands, scalps, and heads of the 
whites whom they had killed. The troops pursued, but, 
unable to overtake them, returned to Swanzey. 

67. The whole country was alarmed, and the number 
of troops augmented. By this array of force, Philip was 
induced to quit his residence at Mount Hope, and take 
^ost near a swamp at Pocasset, now Tiverton. At that 
place, the English attacked him, but were repulsed. 
Sixteen whites were killed, and the Indians, by this suc- 
cess, were made bolder. 

68. At this time, most of the settlements were sur- 
rounded by thick forests, and the Indians lived intermixed 
with the vt' bites. The former were acquainted, of course, 
with the dwellings of the latter, with their roads, and 
places of resort ; could watch their motions, and fall upon 
them in their defenceless and unguarded moments. Many 
were shot dead as they opened their doors in the morn- 
ing; niany while at work in their fields, and others while 
travelling to visit their neighbors, or places of worship. 
At all times, at all places, in all employments, were their 
lives in jeopardy; and no one could tell but that in the 
next moment, he should receive his death shot from his 
barn, the thicket, or the way side. 

69. Whenever the enemy assembled in force, detach- 
ments were sent against them ; if weaker than these, they 
would retreat; if stronger, assault and conquer them. 
Defenceless villages were suddenly attacked, the houses 
burned, and the men, women, and children killed, or car- 
ried into captivity. Their ruin was the work of a mo- 
ment ; and when accomplished, its authors vanished. 



42 MASSACHUSETTS. 

70. The colonies, losing individuals, families and vil- 
lages, found their numbers sensibly diminished ; their 
strength impaired ; and began to apprehend even total 
extinction. Nothing but a vigorous efFort could save 
them. The commissioners met, and determined to de- 
spatch an army of a thousand men, to attack the principal 
position of the enemy. Josiah Winslow, governor of 
Plymouth, was appointed commander-in-chief; and a 
Bolemn fast, to invoke the divine aid, wsls proclaimed 
throughout New England. 

71. On the 18th ot December, the diiferent bodies of 
troops formed a junction at a place in the country of the 
Narragansets, about fifteen miles from the enemy. The 
weather was extremely cold, but the men, from necessity, 
passed the night, uncovered, in the fields. At dawn of 
day, they began their march, wading through the deep 
snow, and at one o'clock, arrived near the enemy's post, 
which was upon a rising ground, in the midst of a swamp. 
It was surrounded by palisades, and on the outside of these 
was a fence of brush, a rod in width. 

72. Here was fought the most desperate battle recorded 
in the early annals of the country. It continued three 
hours. The English obtained a decisive victory. One 
thousand Indian warriors were killed; three hundred 
more, and as many women and children, were made 
prisoners. But dearly was the victory purchased. Six 
brave captains, and eighty men, were killed, and one 
hundred and fifty were wounded. 

73. From this blow, the confederated Indians never re- 
covered ; but they still remained sufficiently strong to 
harass the settlements by continual inroads. In retalia- 
tion, the EngHsh sent several detachments into their ter- 
ritories, nearly all of which were successful. Captain 
Church, of Plymouth, and captain Dennison, of Connecti- 
cut, were conspicuous for their bravery and good fortune. 

74. In the mid«t of these reverses, Philip remained firm 
and unshaken. His warriors were cut off'; his chief men, 
his wife and family, were killed or taken prisoners ; and 
at these successive misfortunes, he is represented to have 
wept with a bitterness which proved him to possess the 
noblest of human virtues and affections ; but he disdained 
to listen to any offers of peace. He even shot one of his 
men, who proposed submission. At length, after being 
hunted ifrom swamp to swamp, he was himself shot, by 
the brother of the Indian he had killed. After his death 



MASSACHUSETTS. 43 

the remnant of his followers either submitted to the Eng- 
lish, or united with distant tribes. 

75. Never was peace more welcome, for never had war 
been more distressing-. The whole population was in 
mourning for relatives slain. Nearly a thousand houses 
had been burned, and goods and cattle of great value had 
been plundered or destroyed. The colonies had contracted 
a heavy debt, which, their resources having been so much 
diminished, they found an almost insupportable buruen. 
But, in their deepest distress, they forbore to apply to the 
mother country for assistance ; and this omission excited 
surprise and jealousy. "You act," said a privy counsellor, 
"as though you were independent of our master's crown ; 
and though poor, yet you are proud." 

76. In 1680, New Hampshire, at the solicitation of John 
Mason, to whose ancestor a part of the territory had been 
granted, was constituted a separate colony. Massachu- 
setts, apprehending the loss of Maine also, purchased of 
the heirs of Gorges their claim to the soil and jurisdiction 
for twelve hundred and fifty pounds. 

77. The disregard of the acts of trade had given great 
offence to the mother country, and the governors of New 
England were peremptorily required to enforce them. But 
being enacted by a parliament in which the colonies were 
not represented, they were regarded as violations of their 
rights, and continued to be evaded with impunity. Ed- 
ward Randolph was therefore sent over, commissioned as 
inspector of the customs in Nev/ England. He was also 
the bearer of a letter from the king, requiring that agents 
should be sent to the court of London, fully empowered 
to act for the colonies. 

78. It was well understood to be the intention of the 
king to procure, from the agents, a surrender of the char- 
ters, or to annual them by a suit in his courts, that he might 
himself place officers over the colonies, who would be sub- 
servient to his views. The inhabitants of Massachusetts 
felt that to be deprived of their charter, which secured to 
them the right of self-government, would be the greatest 
of calamities ; and their agents were instructed, in no 
emergency, to surrender it. This being known to the 
king, a prosecution was instituted against the corporation, 
and, in 1684, a subservient court decreed that the charter 
should be cancelled. 

79. All impediments to the exercise of the royal will 
being" thus rRmoved, king James established a temporary 

E 



44 MASSACHUSETTS. 

government over the colony, first appointing Joseph Dud- 
ley, and, in 1686, sir Edmund Andross, governor. This 
latter appointment caused the most gloomy forebodings. 
Sir Edmund had been governor of Nev^r York, and it was 
known that his conduct there had been arbitrary and 
tyrannical. 

80. Having secured a majority in the council, be as- 
sumed contrd overthe press,appointing Randolph licenser. 
He established new and oppressive regulations concerning 
taxes, public worship, marriages, and the settiemrnt ot 
estates. He, and, by his permission, his subordinate offi- 
cers, extorted enormous fees for their services. He de- 
clared that, the charter being cancelled, the old titles to 
land were of no validity, and compelled the inhabitants, in 
order to avoid suits before j'ldges dependent on his will, to 
take out new patents, for whichlarge sums were demanded. 

81. The hatred of the people was excited in proportion 
to their sufferings. In the beginning of 1689, a rumor 
reached Boston, that William, prince of Orange, had in- 
vaded England, with the inlent^ion of dethroning the king. 
Animated by the hope of deliverance, the peof)Ie rushed 
spontaneously to arms, took possession of the fort, seized 
Andross, Randolph, and other obnoxious persons, and 
placed them in confinement, A council of safety, consist- 
ing of their former magistrates, was then organized, to 
administer the government until authentic intelligence 
should be received from England. 

82. In a few weeks, a ship arrived, bringing the glad 
tidings that Wilham and Marv were firmly seated on the 
throne. They were immediately proclaimed, in ail the 
colonies, with unusual rejoicings. The people of Massa- 
chusetts applied for the restoration of their old, or the 

frant of a new charter. A definite answer was deferred, 
ut the council was authorized to administer the govern- 
ment, according to the provisions of the old charter, until 
further directions should be given. Andross, Randolph, 
and others, were ordered home for trial. 

83. In this unsettled state of the country, the French 
in Canada and Nova Scotia instigated the northern and 
eastern Indians to commence hostilities against the Eng- 
lish settlements. Dover and Salmon Falls, in New 
Hampshire, Casco, in Maine, and Schenectady, in New 
York, were attacked by different parties of French and 
Indians, and the most shocking barbarities perpetrated 
upon the inhabitants. 



MASSACHUSETTS. 45 

84. Reffardinff Canada as the principal source of their 
miseries, New England and New York formed the bold 
project of reducing it to subjection. By great exertion, 
they raised an army, which, under the command of gene- 
ral VVinthrop, was sent against Montreal, and equipped a 
fleet, which, commanded by sir William Phipps, was des- 
tined to attack Quebec. 

85. Both returned unsuccessful, disappointing the san- 
guine hopes of the people, and burdening them with a debt 
which they had not the means of discharging. To pay 
off her troops, Massachusetts put in circulation bills of 
credit or paper money, an expedient which was af erwards 
often resorted to, and, though it afforded relief at the 
moment, produced, in its consequences, extensive and 
complicated mischief. 

86. In the mean time, a new charter had been granted 
to Massachusetts, which added Plymouth, Maine, and 
Nova Scotia, to her territory. The only privileoe it al- 
lowed to the people was, the choice of representatives. 
These w^ere to elect a council, and both bod es were to 
constitute the legislative power. It reserved to the king 
the right of appointing the governor and lieutenant-gover- 
nor. To the governor it gave the power of rejecting laws, 
of negativing the choice of counsellors, of appointing all 
military and judicial oiiicers, of adjourning and even of 
dissolving the assembly at pleasure. Laws, although 
approved by him, might be abrogated by the king, within 
three years af.er their enactment 

fe7. The king, to render the new charter more accepta- 
ble, appointed sir William Phipps, a native of the province, 
governor, and in 1692, he arrived at Boston. The new 
government went into operation without any opposition 
from the inhabitants; and almost the first act of sir Wil- 
liam Phipps and his council, was the institution of a court 
to try the unfortunate victims of popular delusion, accused 
of witchcraft, at Salem. 

88. The belief in this supposed crime had been so prev- 
alent in England, that parliament had enacted a law 
Eunishing it with death. Under this law, multitudes had 
een tried and executed in that country, and two or three 
in Massachuaetts, some of whom acknowledged they were 
guilty. Accounts of these trials and confessions, and 
particularly of some trials before sir Matthew Hale, a 
judge revered in the colonies, had been published and dis- 
tributed throughout the country. They were read, in a 



40 MASSACHUSETTS., 

time of deep distress and gloom, by a people naturally 
sedate, and accustomed to regard with awe the surprising 
and unaccountable incidents and appearances which, in 
this new world, were often presented to their contemplation. 

89. In February, 1692, a daughter and a niece of Mr. 
Paris, the minister of Salem, were afflicted with disor- 
ders affecting their bodies in the most singular manner. 
The physicians, unable to account for their contortions, 
pronounced them bewitched ; and the children, hearing 
of this, declared that an Indian woman, who lived in the 
house, was the cause of their torments. Mr. Paris con- 
curred with the physicians. Several private fasts were 
kept at his house, and the gloom was increased by a 
solemn fast throughout the colony. 

90. The Indian woman confessed herself guilty. ^ The 
children were visited, noticed, and pitied. This en- 
couraged them to persevere, and other children, either 
from sympathy or the desire of similar attentions, exhibited 
similar contortions. A distracted old woman, and one 
who had been a longtime confined to her bed, were added 
to the list of the accused; and, in the progress of the 
infatuation, women of mature age united with the children 
in their accusations. 

91. The accused were multiplied in proportion to the 
accusers. Children accused their parents, and parents 
their children. A word from those who were supposed to 
be afflicted, occasioned the arrest of the devoted victim; 
and so firmly convinced were the magistrates, that the 
prince of darkness was in the midst of them, using human 
instruments to accomplish his purposes, that the slightest 
testimony was deemed sufficient to justify a commitment 
for trial. 

92. The court, especially instituted for this purpose, 
held a session in June, and afterwards several others by 
adjournment. Many were tried, and received sentence 
of death. A few pleaded guilty. Several were convicted 
upon testimony, which, at other times, would not have 
induced suspicion of an ordinary crime, and some upon 
testimony retracted after conviction. Nineteen were 
executed, and many yet remained to be tried. 

93. At this stage of the proceedings, the legislature 
established, by law, a permanent court, by which the other 
was superseded, and fixed a distant day for its first ses- 
sion at Salem. In the mean time, the accusations multi- 
plied, and additional jails were required to hold the accused. 



MASSACHUSETTS. 47 

The impostors, hardened by impunity and success, as- 
cended from decrepit old \vomen, to respectable charac- 
ters, and at length, in their ravings, named ministers of 
the gospel, and even the wife of the governor. 

94. The community were thrown into consternation. 
Each felt alarmed for himself, his family, and friends. The 
shock roused them to reflection. They considered more 
closely the character of the accusers ; the nature of the 
alleged crime; the testimony, often contradictory and 
never explicit ; and more than all these, the high standing 
of some who were imphcated ; and began to doubt whether 
they had not been too credulous and precipitate. 

9.5. At the next term, the grand jury found indictments 
against fifty ; but, on trial, all were acquitted except three, 
and them the governor reprieved. He also directed that 
all who were m prison should be set at liberty. A belief, 
however, of the truth of the charges, still lingered among 
the people, and prevented any prosecution of the im- 
postors. That all were impostors cannot be believed. 
Many must have acted under the influence of a disordered 
imagination, which the attendant circumstances were 
well calculated to produce. 

96. Besides establishing courts of justice, the legisla- 
ture, at its first session under the new charter, passed a 
^w which indicates the same independent spirit that af- 
terwards resisted the usurpations of the British parlia- 
ment. It provided that no tax should be imposed upon 
any of his majesty's subjects, or their estates, in the prov- 
ince, but by the act and consent of the governor, council, 
and representatives of the people, in general court assem- 
bled. It is almost superfluous to say, that this law was 
disallowed by the king. 

97. The war with the French and Indians, which be- 
gan in 1690, was not yet terminated. For seven years 
were the frontier settlements harassed by the savages ; 
and the English employed in expeditions against them. A 
history of these would consist only of repeated accounts 
of Indian cunning and barbarity, and of English enterprise 
and fortitude. Peace between England and France, 
which took place in 1697, was soon followed by peace with 
the savages. 

98. But in a few years, war again broke out in Europe, 
which was the signal for hostilities in America. The first 
blow fell upon Deerfield. In February, 1704, it was sur- 
prised in the night, about forty persons were killed, and 



48 MASSACHUSETTS. 

more than one hundred made prisoners, among whom 
were Mr. Williams, the minister, and his family. The 
killed were scalped, and the prisoners commanded to 
prepare for a long march to Canada. 

99. On the second day, Mrs. Williams was so exhausted 
with fatigue that she could go no farther. Her husband 
solicited permission to reinam with her ; but the retreat- 
ingsavages,accordingto their custom in such cases, killed 
her and compelled him to proceed. Before the termina- 
tion of their journey, twenty more became unable to walk, 
and were in like manner sacrificed. Those who survived 
the journey to Canada were treated by the French with 
humanity ; and after a captivity of many years, most of 
them were redeemed, and returned to their friends. 

100. New York having agreed with the French and the 
western Indians to remam neutral, these were enabled to 
pour their whole force upon Massachusetts and New 
Hampshire, the inhabitants of which, for ten years,endured 
miserieg peculiar to an Indian war, and more distressing 
than their descendants can well imagine. The enemy 
were at all times prowhng about the frontier settlements, 
watching in concealment for an opportunity to strike a 
sudden blow and fly with safety. The women and children 
retired into the garrisons ; the men left their fields unculti^ 
vated, or labored with arras at their sides, and with senti- 
nels at every point whence an attack could be apprehended. 

101. Yet notwithstanding these precautions, the enemy 
were often successful, kilhng sometimes an individual only, 
sometimes a whole family, sometimes a band of laborers, 
ten or twelve in number ; and so swift were they in their 
movements, that but few fell into the hands of the whites. 
It was computed, that the sum of one thousand pounds 
was expended for every Indian killed or made captive. 

102. In 1707, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and 
Rhode Island despatched an armament against Port Royal, 
in Nova Scotia, which was then in possession of the French. 
It returned without accomplishing its object. In 1710, 
New England, assisted by a fleet furnished by the mother 
country, succeeded in reducing the place ; and its name, 
in compliment to queen Anne, was changed to Annapolis. 

103. The success of this enterprise encouraged the 
commander, general Nicholson, to visit England and pro- 
pose an expeaition against Canada. His proposition was 
adopted, and in June, 1711, admiral Walker, with a fleet 
of fifteen ships of war, and forty transports, bringing an 



MASSACHUSETTS. 49 

army of veteran troops, arrived at Boston. Taking on 
board two additional regiments, he sailed from that port 
about the last of July. At the same time, general Nichol- 
son repaired to Albany to take command of the troops that 
were to proceed by land. 

104. When the fleet had advanced ten leagues up the 
river St. Lawrence, the weather became tempestuous and 
foggy. A difference of opinion arose concerning the course 
to be pursued, the English pilots recommending one course, 
and the colonial another. The admiral, entertaining, like 
all other English officers, an opinion of the abilities of the 
colonists corresponding with their dependent condition, 
adopted the advice of his own pilots. Pursuing the course 
they recommended, nine transports were driven, about 
midnight, upon the rocks, and dashed to pieces. 

105. From every quarter cries of distress arose, con- 
veying, through the darkness, to those who were yet afloat, 
intelligence of the fate of their comrades and of their own 
danger. The shrieks of the drowning pleaded powerfully 
for assistance, but none could be afforded until the morn- 
ing dawned, when six or seven hundred, found floating on 
the scattered wrecks, were rescued from death, more 
than a thousand having sunk to rise no more. Not a single 
American was lost. 

106. Weakened by this terrible disaster, the admiral 
determined to return to England, where he arrived in the 
month of October. Thither misfortune attended him. 
On the fifteenth, his ship blew up, and four hundred sea- 
men perished. The New England troops returned to their 
homes, and Nicholson, having learned the fate of the fleet, 
led back his troops to Albany. The next year the colonies 
found no repose. In 1713, France and England made 
peace at Utrecht, and, in the same year, peace was con- 
cluded with the Indians. 

107. Such was the destruction of lives in this war, that 
the population of New England was sensibly retarde-d. 
Her expenses were also enormous. Although the annual 
taxes paid by the inhabitants were greater than in any 
other portion of the British empire, yet the colonies most 
exposed were burdened, at the close of the war, with a 
heavy debt, in the shape of bills of credit, or paper money, 
which impeded their prosperity, perplexing mdividuals 
and the government in all their transactions. 

108. In 1716, Samuel Shute, a colonel in the army of 
the celebrated duke of Marlborough, was appointed gov- 



50 MASSACHUSETTS. 

ernor. On his arrival in the province, he found the peo- 
ple divided into two parties, one in favor of a public bank, 
which had just been established, the other of the incor- 

f (Oration of a private bank. He joined the former; the 
atter of course became hostile ; and, led by a Mr. Cooke, 
opposed with virulence all his measures. 

109. In 1720, this party, embracing a majority of the 
representatives, elected their leader speaker. The choice 
was communicated to the governor, who interposed his 
negative. The house persisted in their choice, denying 
his right to interfere. The controversy continued several 
days, when the governor dissolved the assembl)'', and di- 
rected that a new election should be made by the people. 

110. The charter not giving, in express terms, to the 
governor, the power to reject a speaker, the people re- 
solved to support their representatives, and nearly all of 
them were again elected. When met, to avoid a second 
dissolution, they chose a Mr. Lindall speaker ; but in a 
warm remonstrance to the governor, condemned his con- 
duct, and re-asserted their sole and exclusive right to 
choose their presiding officer. 

111. The session was short, and but little was done that 
did not display the angry feelings of the house. Instead 
of six hundred pounds, the usual grant to the governor for 
half a year's salary, they appropriated but five hundred, 
and, as a mark of their displeasure, deferred that act until 
near the close of the session. 

112. At their next meeting, the same feelings prevailed, 
and the same diminished sum was voted. The governor 
then informed them, that he had been instructed by tho 
king to recommend to the assembly, to establish for him a 
permanent and honorable salary. The house, aware of 
the importance of retaining the power of granting such 
sums as the governor mignt merit by his conduct, replied, 
that the subject was new, and expressed a wish that the 
court might rise. With this request the governor complied. 

113. This disagreement continued, the ill temper of 
both parties increasing, through several subsequent ses- 
sions. The representatives, confident of the support of 
the people, refused to establish a permanent salary for the 
governor, and often withheld the pittance they gave, until 
he had sanctioned those measures which they desired 
should be adopted. 

114. His residence in the province being rendered, by 
this dispute, unpleasant, he suddenly and privately quitted 



MASSACHUSETTS. 51 

it, in December, 1722. Upon his arrival in England, he 
exhibited charges against the house, of having made 
various encroachments upon the king's prerogative, which 
the agents of the province were instructed to answer and 
repel. 

115. He remained in England until 1728, when he 
resigned his office, and William Burnet, then governor of 
New York, was appointed his successor. In his first 
speech, he informed the house that he had received posi- 
tive instructions from the king to insist on a permanent 
salary. The representatives, generous of their money, 
but tenacious of their rights, appropriated three hundred 
pounds for the expenses of his journey, and fourteen 
hundred pounds towards his support, not specifying for 
what time. The first sum he accepted ; but absolutely 
declined receiving any compensation for his services, 
except in the mode of a fixed salary. 

116. The delegates were equally decided; and having 
transacted all their necessary business, requested the 

fovernor, by message, to adjourn them. He replied, that 
e could not comply with their request, as, if he did, he 
should put it out of their power to pay immediate regard 
to the king's instructions. A few days afterwards, the 
request was again made and again denied. 

117. Messages, containing arguments and replies, were 
often interchanged by the parties. After two months had 
been consumed in the controversy, the governor, imagin- 
ing the members were influenced by the citizens of Bos- 
ton, transferred the general court to Salem. They were 
detained there two months; were then allowed to return 
to their homes ; were again assembled after a short recess; 
and having sat seventeen days, were again adjourned 
without exhibiting any symptoms of compliance. 

lis. A new assembly was elected, and several sessiona 
in the summer of 1729, displaying the same spirit as the 
former. In the'mean time, information was transmitted 
from England, that the kin^ approved the conduct of the 
governor, and condemned that of the house. Still the 
members continued inflexible. In August, they were 
removed to Cambridge, which served to exasperate rather 
than to convince them. Here, however, the controversy 
was suspended, for a time, by the death of the gov- 
ernor, which was supposed to have been hastened by 
his unsuccessful contest with the house of representa- 
tives. 



52 MASSACHUSETTS. 

119. His successor was Mr. Belcher, then agent in 
England. As he belonged to the popular party, his 
appointment gave rise to the expectation, that the instruc- 
tion, to obtain a permanent salary, was withdrawn, But 
from his first speech it appeared, that it was not only 
unrescinded, but enforced by a threat of punishment in 
case of refusal. 

120. The house, unintimidated by the threat, refused. 
The governor, during the two first years of his adminis- 
tration, made several attempts to induce them to comply. 
All failing, he endeavored to obtain a relaxation of his 
instructions. Permision was at length granted that he 
might receive a particular sum, v/hich was voted, and a 
similar permission was afterwards annually given. Thus 
ended a contest which prepared the people of Massachu- 
setts to embark in another in which more important rights 
were to be defended. 

121. Tliese turbulent times were succeeded by a calm 
which continued several years; during which, however, 
the enemies of governor Belcher, by incessant misrepre- 
Bentation, deprived him of the favor of the ministry in 
England. In 1740, he was removed from office, and Mr. 
William Shirley appointed in his place. 

122. In 1744, war again broke out between England and 
France, and the colonies were involved in its calamities. 
Their commerce and fisheries suffered great injury from 
privateers, fitted out at Louisburg, a Frencli port, on cape 
j3reton. Its situation gave it such importance, that nearly 
six millions of dollars had been expended on its fortifica- 
tions. Mr. Vaughan, of New Hampshire, who had often 
visited that place as a trader, conceived the project of an 
expedition against it. He communicated it to governor 
Shirley, and, being ardent and enthusiastic, convinced him 
that the enterprise was practicable, and inspired him with 
his own enthusiasm. 

123. Having exacted of the general court an oath of 
secrecy, the governor, in January, 1745, communicated to 
them the project. Many heard it with amazement. So 
strong was the place, and so weak, comparatively, were 
the colonies, that the thought of attacking it seemed rash 
and presumptuous. From respect to him, however, his 
proposal was referred to a committee; they reported 
ag'ainst it ; the house accepted the report, and the members 
dismissed from their minds all thoughts of the expedition. 

124. During tbe secret deliberations the people watched 



MASSACHUSETTS. 53 

with anxiety to ascertain their object. The disclosure 
was made by an honest member, who, incautiously, in his 
family devotions, prayed for the divine blessing on the 
attempt, should it be made. The people were mstantly 
struck with the advantage of possessing the place. When 
the decision was made known, a petition, signed by a large 
number of merchants, was presented to the general court, 
praying them to comply with tbe governor's proposal. 
The subject was again discussed, and a vote in favor of 
the expedition was passed by a majority of one. 

125. The question was now decided, and all who were 
before averse to the enterprise, united heartily with its 
supporters to carry it into execution. The other New 
England colonies were solicited, and agreed to furnis-h 
issistance ; and a boat was despatched to commodore 
Warren, in the West Indies, to mvite his co-operation. 
Colonel Pepperell was appointed commander-in-chief, and 
Roger Wolcott, of Connecticut, second in command. 

126. In two months, an army of more than four thousand 
men was enlisted, clothed, victualled, and equipped for 
service, in the four New England colonies, which did not 
then contain four hundred thousand inhabitants. On the 
23d of March, the despatch boat returned from the 
West Indies, with advice that commodore Warren de- 
clined furnishing aid. This intelligence was kept secret. 
The troops of Massachusetts embarked, as though nothing 
discouraging had happened; and about the middle of 
April, they, as well as those sent by Connecticut and New 
Hampshire, arrived safe at Canso. 

127. Commodor Warren had but just deapatched his 
answer, when he received orders to repair to Boston with 
such ships as could be spared, and concert measures with 
governor Shirley for his majesty's service in North Amer- 
ica. He sailed instantly ; but learning, in his course, that 
the transports had left Boston for Canso, he steered 
directly for that place, where he arrived on the 23d of 
April. He addeci much to their naval strength, and much 
to that confidence, which, by promising, ensures victory, 

128. Several vessels of war, which had been sent to 
cruise before Louisburg, had captured anumberofFrench 
ships, and prevented any intelhgence of the expedition 
from reachmg the enemy. These vessels were daily in 
sight of the place, but were supposed to be privateers, and 
caused no alarm. The appearance of the fleet, on the 30th 
of April, gave the French the first intimation of their danger 



54 MASSACHUSETTS. 

129. The troops immediately landed, and the next day 
a detachment of four hundred, marching round the hills, 
approached within a mile of the grand battery, setting fire 
to all the houses and stores on the way. Many of thesis 
contained pitch and tar, which produced a thick smoke, 
that completely enveloped the invaders. The fears of the 
French were increased by their uncertainty. They ima- 
gined the whole army was coming upon them, and, throw- 
ing their powder into a well, deserted the battery, of which 
the New England troops took possession without loss. 

130. This was uncommon good fortune ; but the most 
difficult labors of the siege remained to be performed. 
The cannon were to be drawn nearly two miles, over a 
deep morass, in plain view, and within gun-shot, of the 
enemy's principal fortifications. For fourteen nights, the 
troops, with straps over their shoulders, and sinking to 
their knees in mud, were employed in this service. 

131. The approaches were then begun in the mode which 
Feemed most proper to the shrewd understandings of un- 
taught mihtia. Those officers, who were skilled in the art 
of war, talked of zigzags and epaulements; but the troops 
made themselves merry with the terms, and proceeded m 
their own way. By the 20th of May, they had erected 
five batteries, one of which mounted five forty -two pound- 
ers, and did great execution. 

132. Meanwhile the fleet, cruising in the harbor, had 
been equally successful. It captured a French ship of 
sixty-four guns, loaded with stores for the garrison, to 
whom the loss was as distressing as to the besiegers the 
capture was fortunate. English ships of war were, be- 
Bides, continually arriving, and added such strength to the 
fleet, that a combined attack upon the town was resolved 
upon. The enemy, discovering this design, deemed it 
unwise to abide the hazard of an assault. On the 15th 
of June, the French commander proposed a cessation of 
hostilities, and, on the 17th, capitulated. 

133. Intelligence of this event, flying swiftly through 
the colonies, diffused great and universal joy. And well 
might the citizens of JN^ew England be elated with the 
glad tidings. Without even a suggestion from the mother 
country, they had projected, and, with but little assistance, 
had achieved, an enterprise of vast importance to her and 
to them. Their commerce and fisheries were now secure, 
and their maritime cities relieved from p11 fear of attack 
from that quarter. 



NEW HAMPSHIRE. 55 

134. France, fired with resentment at her loss, made 
extraordinary exertions to retrieve it, and to inflict chas- 
tisement on New England. The next summer, she de- 
spatched to the American coast a powerful fleet, carrying a 
large number of soldiers. The news of its approach spread 
terror throughout New England ; but an uncommon suc- 
cession of disasters, which the pious of that time attribut- 
ed to the special interposition of Providence, deprived it of 
all power to inflict injury. After remaining a short time 
on the coast, it returned to France, having Tost two admi- 
rals, both of whom, it was supposed, put an end to their 
lives through chagrin ; having also, by temj)ests, been 
reduced to one half its force, and effected nothing. 

135. In 1748, peace was concluded, each party restoring 
aU its prisoners and conquests ; a striking, but not un- 
common, illustration of the folly of war. Louisburg, though 
conquered by the colonies, was exchanged, by Great 
Britain, for territories which she had lost in Europe. 
New England murmured at this injustice ; but what avail 
the murmurs of the weak 1 

136. From this period to the commencement of the next 
French war, but few important events occurred in Massa- 
chusetts. ^ The bills of credit, which the colony had issued 
to defray its enormous expenditure, were redeemed by the 
government, at their depreciated value. This example 
was followed, though tardily, by the other governments. 
At the time of their redemption, they were worth no more, 
in some colonies, than one tenth, and in others, one twen- 
tieth, of the sum for which they had been issued. 



CHAPTER III. 
NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

WiTHthe history of Massachusetts, the parent of the 
New England colonies, that of New Hampshire as been 
necessaril}^ blended. A brief relation of some detached 
events, which occurred in the latter colony, wiU now be 
given. 

2. John Mason, Ferdinand Gorges and others, having 
obtained, of the Plymouth or New England Company, 
grants of several tracts of land, lying north of Massachu- 
setts, sent from England, in 1623, a few persons to begin 



56 NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

a settlement. Part landed, and, for a sliort time, re- 
mained at Little Harbor, on the west side of Piscataqua 
river, and near its mouth. Here the first house was built, 
which was called Mason Hall. The remainder, proceed- 
inff higher up the river, settled at Cocheco, afterwards 
called Dover. 

3. Fishing and trade being the principal objects of these 
emigrants, their settlements increased slowly. In 1629, 
the territory situated between Merrimac and Piscataqua 
rivers, and extending sixty miles from the sea,was granted 
to Mason alone, and then first called New Hampshire. 
In 1631, the first house was built at Portsmouth. In 1638, 
the reverend John Wheelwright, who, in 1629, but pre- 
vious to the date of Mason's patent, had purchased the 
land of the Indians, laid the foundation of Exeter. The 
next year, tiiirty-five persons, residing in that town, 
combined, and established civil government. Within a 
year or two afterwards, the inhabitants of Dover and 
Portsmouth followed their example, each town remaining 
distinct and independent. 

4. In 1641, these little republics, distrusting their ability 
to protect themselves, formed a coalition with Massachu- 
setts, and long remained a part of that colony. The civil 
wars in England diverted the attention of Mason from his 
grant, and those who migrated to the country purchased 
of Wheelwright the lands which they occupied. In the 
vvar with Philip, the settlements on Piscataqua and Oyster 
rivers were attacked by the Indians, and suffered severely. 

5. In 1675, Robert Mason, grandson and heir of John 
Mason, applied to the king to obtain possession of the ter- 
ritory and rights which had been granted to his ancestor. 
Notice of this application was given to Massachusetts, 
and the parties were heard before the king in council. 
In 1679, a decree was passed, that New Hampshire should 
be constituted a separate province, to be ruled by a presi- 
dent and council, who were to be appomted by the king, 
and a house of representatives to be chosen by the people. 
No decision was made affecting the titles to land. 

6. The first assembly, consisting of eleven members, 
met, in 1680, at Portsmouth. At this session, a code of 
laws was adopted, of which the first, in a style worthy of 
freemen, declared, |' that no act, imposition, law, or ordi- 
nance, should be imposed upon the inhabitants of the 
province, but such as should be made by the assembly, 
and approved by the president and council." This was 



NEW HAMPSHIRE. 57 

twelve years previous to the enactment of a similar lawin 
Massachusetts. 

7. In the same year, Mason, who had been appointed a 
member of the council, arrived in the colony. He assumed 
the title of lord proprietor, claimed the soil as his property, 
and threatened to prosecute all who would not take from 
him leases of the lands they occupied. His pretensions 
were resisted by most of the inhabitants, who claimed the 
fee-simple of the soil by a more righteous, if not more 
legal title. 

8. The peace of the colony was long disturbed by these 
conflicting claims. At the head of those who contended 
with Mason, stood major Waldron, of Dover. Against 
him, and many others, suits were instituted. No defence 
was made,; judgments were obtained, but so general was 
the hostility to Mason, that he never dared to enforce them. 

9. Over Massachusetts and New Hampshire, the same 
governor usually presided. After Andross was deposed, 
the inhabitants of the latter colony desired to be incorpo- 
rated with their former brethren. Their request was 
opposed by Samuel Allen, who had purchased Mason's 
title, and was refused. "Allen was made governor of the 
colony, and by his influence, John Usher, nis son-in-law, 
was appointed heutenant-governor. Under his adminis- 
tration, the disputes, occasioned by adverse claims to land, 
continued to rage with increased violence. Other suits 
were instituted, and judgments obtained ; but the sheriff 
was forcibly resisted, by a powerful combination,whenever 
he attempted to put the plaintift' in possession. 

10. From Indian wars this colony suflTered more than 
any of her sisters. The surprise of Dover, in 1689, was 
attended by circumstances of the most shocking barbarity. 
That the natives had been cruelly injured by major 
Waldron, the principal citizen, may account for, if not 
extenuate, their ferocity in obtaining revenge. 

11. Having determined upon their plan of attack, they 
employed more than their usual art, to lull the suspicions 
of the inhabitants. So civil and respectful was their 
behavior, that they often obtained permission to sleep in 
the fortified houses in the town. On the evening of the 
fatal night, they assembled in the neighborhood, and sent 
their women to apply for lodgings, at the houses devoted 
to destruction; who were not only admitted, but were 
shown how they could open the doors should they have 
occasion to go out in the night. 



58 NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

12. When all was quiet, the doors were opened and the 
signal given. The Indians rushed into Waldron's house, ^ 
and hastened to his apartment. Awakened by the noise,' 
he seized his sword, and drove them back; but when 
returning for his other arms, was stunned with a hatchet, 
and fell. They then dragged him into his hall, seated 
him in an elbow chair, upon a lon^ table, and insultingly 
asked him, " Who shall judge Indians now ]" After 
feasting upon provisions, which they compelled the rest 
of the family to procure, each one, with his knife, cut 

fashes across his breast, saying,"! cross out my account." 
V^hen, weakened with the loss of blood, he was about to 
fall from the table, his own sword was held under him, 
which put an end to his misery. 

13. At other houses, similar acts of cruelty were perpe- 
trated. In the whole, twenty-three persons were killed, 
twenty-nine carried prisoners to Canada, and mostly sold 
to the French. Remembering kindness as well as injury, 
thpy spared one woman, who, thirteen years before, had 
conferred a favor on one of the party. Many houses were 
burned, much property was plundered, and so expeditious 
were the Indians, that they had fled beyond reach before 
the neighboring people could be collected. 

14. The war thus commenced was prosecuted with great 
vigor. The French, by giving premiums for scalps, and 
by purchasing the English prisoners, animated the Indians 
to exert all their activity and address, arid the frontier 
inhabitants endured the most aggravated suflerings. The 
settlements on Oyster river were again surprised ; twenty 
houses were burned, and nearly one hundred persons were 
killed or made prisoners. Other towns were attacked, 
many persons slain, and many carried into captivity. The 
peace of Ryswick, in 1697, closed the distressing scene. 
In 1703, another war began, which continued ten years. 

1-5. In 1719, above one hundred families, mostly Pres- 
byterians, emigrated from the north of Ireland, and settled 
the town of Londonderry. They introduced the foot 
spinning-wheel, the manufacture of linen, and the culture 
of potatoes. They were industrious, hardy, and useful 
citizens. 

16. From 1722 to 1726, the inhabitants again suffered 
the afflictions of an Indian war. Following the example 
of the French, the government offered premiums for scalns, 
wliich induced several volunteer companies to undertaKe 
expeditions against the enemy. One of these, commanded 



CONNECTICUT. 59 

by captain Lovewell, was greatly distinguished, at first by 
its successes, and afterwards by its misfortunes. 

17. Long after the transfer from Mason to Allen, some 
defect in the conveyance was discovered, which rendered 
it void. In 1746, John Tufton Mason, a descendant of 
the original grantee, claiming the lands possessed by his 
ancestors, conveyed them, for fifteen hundred pounds, to 
twelve persons, subsequently called the Masonian proprie- 
tors. They, to silence opposition, voluntarily relinquished 
tlieir claim to the lands already occupied by others. 

18. They also granted townships on the most liberal 
terms. Reserving certain portions of the land for them- 
selves, for the first settled ministers, and for schools, they 
required merely that the grantees should, within a limited 
time, erect mills and meeting-houses, clear out roads, and 
settle ministers of the gospel. In process of time, nearly 
all the Masonian lands, being about one fourth of the whole, 
were, in this manner, granted ; and contention and lawsuits 
ceased to disturb the repose, and to impede the prosperity 
of the colony. 



CHAPTER IV. 
CONNECTICUT. 

In 1631, viscount Say and Seal, lord Brook, and others, 
obtained from the Plymouth Company, in England, a grant 
of the territory which now constitutes the state of Con- 
necticut; and so little was then known of the geography 
of the new world, that the grant was made to extend, in 
longitude, from the Atlantic Ocean to the South Sea. In 
the same year, the Indians, livmg on Connecticut river, 
having invited the colony of Plymouth to make a settlement 
on their lands, governor Winslow, and others, visited the 
country, and selected a place near the mouth of the little 
river in Windsor, for the erection of a trading house. 

2. The Dutch at Nevv^ York, apprised of this project of 
the English, and determined to anticipate them, immedi- 
ately despatched a party, who erected a fort at Hartford. 
In September, 1633, a company from Plymouth, having 
prepared the frame of a house, put it on board a vessel, 
and, passing the fort, conveyed it to the place previously 
selected. In October, they raised, covered, and fortified 
f 



60 CONNECTICUT 

it with palisades. The Dutch, considering them intruders, 
Bent, the next year, a party of seventy men to drive them 
from the country, but finding them strongly posted, they 
relinquished the design. 

3. In the autumn of 1635, many of the inhabitants of 
Dorchester and Watertown, in Massachusetts, having 
heard of the fertile meadov^^s on Connecticut river, re- 
moved thither, and began settlements at Weathersfield 
and Windsor. During the next winter, their sufierings 
from famine were extreme. So destitute were they of 
provisions, that many, in dread of starvation, returned, in 
December, to Massachusetts. In their journey through 
the dreary wilderness, at this inclement season, they en- 
countered indescribable hardships. 

4. In the same autumn, Mr. Winthrop arrived from 
England, with instructions from the patentees to erect a 
fort at the mouth of the river, and make the requisite 
preparation for planting a colony. The fort was but just 
completed when a party, sent, for the same purpose, by 
the Dutch, at New York, arrived in a vessel, but were not 
permitted to land. 

5. The next spring, those who had been compelled by 
famine to revisit Massachusetts, returned to Connecticut. 
In June, the reverend Mr. Hooker, of Cambridge, and 
about one hundred men, women, and children, belonging 
to his congregation, travelling through the wilderness, 
laid the foundation of Hartford. They were nearly two 
weeks on their journey ; they drove their cattle with them, 
and subsisted, by the way, upon the milk of their cows. 

6. In 1637, all the settlements in New England were 
involved in hostilities with the Pequods, a tribe of Indians 
inhabiting New London and the country around it. Some 
account of this war has been given in the history of Mas- 
sachusetts. Previous to any expedition against them, 
they had killed many of the emigrants to Connecticut, had 
captured others, and tortured them to death. In the short 
war which followed, their surviving brethren, for bravery 
in battle and fortitude in suffering, were not surpassed by 
any portion of the English troops. 

7. At first, the emigrants acknowledged the authority 
of Massaclmsetts. In January, 1639, the freemen, having 
convened at Hartford, adopted a constitution for them- 
selves. They ordained that two general courts, or assem- 
bhes, should oe held annually, one in April, the other in 
September ; that at the court held in April, styled the court 



CONNECTICUT. 61 

of election, the freemen should choose a governor, six 
magistrates, and all the public officers ; that to the other, 
the several towns sliould send deputies, who, in conjunc- 
tion with the governor and magistrates, were authorized 
to enact laws, and perform all necessary public services. 
No general court could be adjourned or dissolved, without 
the consent of a major part of the members. 

8. In the same year, George Fenwick, one of the 
patentees, came over with his family, and settled at the 
mouth of the river. In honor of lord Say and Seal, and 
lord Brook, he called the place Saybrook, Others after- 
wards joined him ; and for several years, they were gov- 
erned by their own magistrates and laws. In 1644, Mr. 
Fenwick, for seven thousand dollars, assigned to the 
general court of Connecticut, the fort at Saybrook, and 
aU the rights conferred by the patent from the Plymouth 
Company in England. This settlement then became a part 
of the colony. The claim of Plymouth colony, founded 
upon their having first made an establishment at Windsor, 
had been previously purchased. 

9. In the mean time, another colony had been planted 
within the limits of the Connecticut patent. In June, 1637, 
two large ships arrived at Boston, from England, having 
on board Mr. Davenport, Mr. Eaton, and many others, 
whom pious motives had impelled to emigrate to New 
England. Being highly respectable, and some of them 
Dossessing great wealth, the general court of Massachu- 
setts, desirous of detaining them in the colony, offered 
them any place they might select for a plantation. 

10. Wishing, however, to institute a civil and religious 
community, conforming in all things to their pecuhar 
principles, they removed, the next year, to Quinnipac, 
which they called New Haven. Soon after their arrival, 
at the close of a day of fasting and prayer, they subscribed 
what they termed a plantation covenant, solemnly binding 
themselves, "until otherwise ordered, to be governed in 
all things, of a civil as well as rehgious concern, by the 
rules wnich the scripture held forth to them." They pur- 
chased of the natives large tracts of land, and laid out 
their town in squares, designing it for a great and ele- 
gant city. 

11. In 1639, all the free planters, assembled in a large 
barn, proceeded to lay the foundation of their civil and 
religious polity. They resolved that none but church 
members should be allowed the privilege of voting, or be 



62 CONNECTICUT. 

elected to office; that all the freemen should annually 
assemble and elect the officers of the colony ; and that 
the word of God should be the only rule fm- ordering the 
affairs of the commonwealth. Such was the original con- 
stitution of New Haven; but as the population increased, 
and new towns were settled, different regulations were 
adopted, and the institutions and laws became gradually 
assimilated to those of Connecticut. 

12. With the Dutch at New York, both colonies had 
constant and vexatious disputes. The former claimed all 
the territory as far east as Connecticut river; the latter 
complained that the Dutch often plundered their property ; 
that they sold guns and ammunition to the Indians, and 
even encouraged them to make war upon the English. 
The fear of attack from that quarter was one of the rea- 
sons which, in 1643, induced the colonies of New England 
to form a confederation for their mutual defence. 

13. In 1650, a treaty of amity and partition was con- 
cluded at Hartford, between the Enghsh and Dutch, the 
latter rehnquishing their claim to the territory of Con- 
necticut, except the lands which they actually occupied. 
Soon after, England and Holland were involved in war 
with each other, but their colonies in America agreed to 
remain at peace. Notwithstanding this agreement, the 
Dutch governor was detected in concerting with the In- 
dians a plot for the total extirpation of the English. 

14. Connecticut and New Haven were alarmed; a 
meeting of the commissioners of the united colonies was 
called, and evidence of the plot laid before them. A 
majority was in favor of war; but the colony of Massa- 
chusetts, being remote from the danger, was averse to it. 
As she was much stronger than either of the others, it 
was, at the suggestion of her deputies, resolved, that 
agents should first be sent to demand of the Dutch gov- 
ernor an explanation of his conduct. 

15. The agents obtained no satisfactory explanation. 
On their return, another meeting of the commissioners 
was held at Boston, additional testimony was laid before 
them, and several ministers of Massachusetts were invited 
to assist at their deliberations, a practice not unusual at 
that period. 

16. The opinion of these ministers being requested, 
they observed, "that the proofs of the execrable plot, 
tending to the destruction of the dear saints of God, were 
of such weight as to induce them to believe the reality 



CONNECTICUT. 63 

of it; vet they were not so fully conclusive as to bear up 
their hearts with the fullness of persuasion which was 
meet in commending the case to God in prayer, and to 
the people in exhortations ; and that it would be safest for 
the colonies to forbear the use of the sword." 

17. But all the commissioners, except one, were of 
opinion that recent aggressions justified, and self-preser- 
vation dictated, an appeal to the sword. They were about 
to declare war, when the general court of Massachusetts, 
in direct violation of one of the articles of the confedera- 
tion, resolved, " that no determination of the commission* 
ers, though all sliould agree, should bind the colony to 
engage in hostilities." 

18. At this declaration, Connecticut and New Haven 
felt alarmed and indignant. They considered the other 
colonies too weak, without the assistance of Massachu- 
setts, to contend with the Dutch and their Indian alhes. 
They argued, entreated, and remonstrated, but she contin- 
ued inflexible. They then represented their danger to 
Cromwell, and implored his assistance. He, with his 
usual promptitude, sent a fleet for their protection, and for 
the conquest of their enemies ; but peace in Europe, intelli- 
gence of which re ached New England soon after the arrival 
of the fleet, saved the Dutch from subjugation, and reUeved 
the colonies from the dread of massacre. 

19. After Charles II. was restored to the throne, Con- 
necticut applied to him for a royal charter. A trifling 
circumstance induced him, forgetting all his arbitrary 
maxims, to comply with her wishes to their utmost extent. 
Her agent, Mr. Winthrop, having an extraordinary ring, 
which nad been given to his grandfather by Charles 1., 
presented it to his son. He immediately granted a charter, 
more liberal in its provisions, tlian any that had yet been 
granted, and confirming, in every particular, the constitu- 
tion which the people had themselves adopted. 

20. This charter comprehended New Haven; but, for 
several years, the people of that colony utterly refused to 
consent to the union. In this opposition to the commands 
of the king, and the remonstrances of Connecticut, Lhey 
persevered until 1665, when the apjjrehension of the 
appointmentof a general governor, and oftheir being united 
with some other colony, having a charter less favorable to 
liberty, impelled them, thotigh reluctantly, to yield. 

21. In tne war with Philip, which began in 1675, Con- 
necticut suffered less than her sister colonies. Her aid* 



64 CONNECTICQT. 

however, in full proportion to her strength, was always - 
freely afforded ; and no troops surpassed her volunteers in 
hravery and enterprise. A large number, and many of 
them officers, were killed at the assault upon the fort at 
Narraganset. 

22. In 1686, king James II., desirous of annulling, not 
only the charters which had been granted to his English 
cities, but those also which had been granted to his Amer- 
ican colonies, summoned the governor of Connecticut to 
appear and show cause why her charter should not be 
declared void. And sir Edmund Andross, who had been 
appointed governor of New England, advised the colony, 
as the course best calculated to ensure the good will of 
his majesty, to resign it voluntarily into his hands, he 
having been instructed to receive it. But the people 
estimated too highly the privileges it conferred to surrender 
it until necessity compelled them. 

23. Sir Edmund, therefore, repaired, with a body of 
troops, to Hartford, when the assembly were in session, 
and demanded of them the charter. They hesitated and 
debated until evening. It was then produced and laid upon 
the table, a large number of people being present. Sud- 
denly, the candles were extinguished. W ith counterfeited 
haste, they were again relighted ; but the charter could no 
where be found. In the dark, it had been privately carried 
off by a captain Wadsworth, and concealed in a hollow 
tree. Sir Edmund, however, assumed the government of 
the colony, and ruled with the same absolute sway, though 
not with the same oppressive tyranny, as in Massachuse ts. 

24. When James was driven from his throne and king- 
dom, and his governor deposed, Connecticut resumed her 
former government. The assembly voted a flattering 
address to king William. The suit, instituted for the 
purpose of annulling her charter, was abandoned ; and her 
mhabitants, while enjoying greater privileges than any of 
their brethren, had reason to congratulate themselves upon 
their address and good fortune in preserving them. 

25. But not long afterwards, they were again called 
upon to defend these privileges from encroachment. In 
1692, colonel Fletcher was appointed governor of New 
York, and was authorized, by his commission, to take 
command of the militia of Connecticut. This power 
having been given, by the charter, to the governor of the 
colony, he determined not to relinquish it, and in this 
determination was supported by the people. 



CONNECTICUT. 

26. The next year, when the general court were in 
Bession, colonel Fletcher repaired to Hartford, and required 
that the militia of the colony should be placed under his 
command. This was resolutely refused. He then ordered 
the trainbands of the city to be assembled. This being 
done, he appeared before them, and directed his aid to read 
to them his commission and instructions from the king. 

27. Captain Wadsworth, the seinor officer of the militia 
present, instantly ordered the drums to beat, and such was 
the noise, that nothing else was to be heard. Colonel 
Fletcher commanded silence ; and again his aid be^an to 
read. " Drum, drum, I say," exclaimed Wadsworth, and 
a command so acceptable to the players, was obeyed with 
spirit. Once more the colonel commanded silence, and a 
pause ensued. "Drum, drum, I say," cried the captain, 
"and turning to governor Fletcher, addressed him with 
energy in his voice and meaning in his looks, "If 1 am 
interrupted again, I will make the sun shine through you 
in a moment." 

28. Deeming it unwise to contend with such a spirit, 
colonel Fletcher desisted, left Hartford the next night, and 
returned to New York. A representation of the opposing 
claim being made to the king, he decided that the gov- 
ernor of Connecticut should have the command of the 
militia ; but in time of war, a certain number should be 
placed under the orders of Fletcher. 

29. In 1700, Yale college was founded. It owes its 
existence to the beneficence and public spirit of the clergy. 
It was first established at Saybrook ; and, in 1702, the 
first degrees were there conferred. Elihu Yale made 
several donations to the institution, and from him it derives 
the name it bears. A succession of able instructers has 
raised it to the second rank among the literary institutions 
of the country. 

30. In 170S, an act was passed by the legislature, re- 
quiring the ministers and delegates of churches to meet 
and form an ecclesiastical constitution for the colony. A 
meeting was in consequence held at Saybrook, the result 
of which was the celebrated Saybrook platform. At the 
subsequent session of the legislature, it was enacted that 
all the churches, united according to this platform, should 
be owned as established by law, allowing, however, to 
other churches, the right of exercising worship and disci- 
pline in their own way, according to their consciences. 

31. In the several abortive attempts to reduce the French 



66 RHODE ISLAND. 

settlements in Canada, and in the expedition against Louis- 
burg. Connecticut furnished her full quota of troops, and 
bore her proportion of the expenses. Of these, a history 
is elsewhere given. After the death of Philip, most of the 
Indians abandoned her territory, and seldom returned to 
molest the inhabitants ; who, living in the enjoyment of 
aU the privileges they desired, felt no inducement, and 
were afforded no opportunity, to perform such actions as 
enhven the pages of history. 



CHAPTER V. 

RHODE ISLAND. 

Roger Williams, who was banished from Massadnii- 
eetts, for avowing the doctrine, that the civil magistrate is 
bound to grant equal protection to every denomination of 
Christians, a doctrine too liberal for the age in which he 
lived, repaired to Seeconk, where he procured a grant of 
land from the Indians. Being informed, by the governor 
of Plyrpouth, that the land was within the limits of that 
colony, he proceeded to Mooshausic, where, in 1636, with 
those friends who followed him, he began a plantation. 

2. He purchased the land of the Indians, and, in grateful 
acknowledgment of the kindness of Heaven, he called the 
place Providence. Acting in conformity with the wise 
and liberal principle, for avowing and maintaining which, 
he had suffered banishment, he allowed entire freedom of 
conscience to all who came within his borders. And to 
him must be given the glory of having first set a practical 
example of the equal toleration of all religious sects in the 
same political community. 

3. His benevolence was not confined to his civilized 
brethren. He labored to enlighten, improve, and conciliate 
the savages. He learned their language, travelled among 
them, and gained the entire confidence of their chiefs. 
He had often the happiness, by his influence over them, 
of saving from injury the colony that had proclaimed him 
an outlaw, and driven him into the wilderness. 

4. In 1638, William Coddington, and seventeen others, 
being persecuted for their religious tenets in Massachu- 
setts, followed WilHams to Providence. By his advice, 
theypurchased of the Indians the island of Aquetnec,now 



RHODE ISLAND. 67 

called Rhode Island, and removed thither. Coddington 
was chosen their judf^e, or chief magistrate. The fertihtv 
of .he soil, and the toleration of all Cliristian sects, attracted 
numerous emigrants from the adjacent settlements, 

5. When the New England colonies, in 1643, formed 
their memorable confederacy, Rhode Island apphed to be 
admitted a member, Plymouth objected; asserting that 
the settlements were within her boundaries. The com- 
missioners decided that Rhode Island might enjoy all the 
advantages of the confederacy, if she would submit to the 
jurisdiction of Plymouth. She declined, proudly preferring 
independence to all the benefits of dependent union, 

6. In 1644, Williams, having been sent to England as 
a^ent for both settlements, obtained of the Plymouth 
Company a patent for the territory, and permission for the 
inhabitants to institute a government for themselves. In 
1647, delegates, chosen by the freemen, held a general 
assembly at Portsmouth, 'organized a government, and 
established a code of laws. The executive power was 
confided to a president and four assistants, 

7. Upon the application of the inhabitants, the king, in 
1663, granted a charter to Rhode Island and Providence 
plantations. The supreme, or legislative power, was to 
be exercised by an assembly, which was to consist of the 
governor, often assistants, and of representatives from the 
several towns, all to be chosen by the freemen. And it 
was also to be provided that " no person within the colony 
should be anywise molested, or called in question, for 
any difference in opinion in matters of religion." This 
charter remained in force until 1642, when a constitution 
was adopted by the people, 

8. When Andross was made governor over New Eng- 
land, he dissolved the charter government of Rhode Island, 
and ruled the colony, with the assistance of a council ap- 
pointed by himself. After he was imprisoned, at Boston, 
the freemen met at Newport, and voted to resume their 
charter. All the officers who, three years before, had been 
displaced, were restored, 

9. The benevolence, justice, and pacific policy of Wil- 
liams, secured to the colony an almost total exemption 
from Indian hostility. In 1730, the number of inhabitants 
was 18,000; in 1761, it v/as 40,000. Brown University 
was founded, at Warren, in 1764, and was removed, a few 
years after, to Providence, Its founder was Nicholas 
'Drown, who gave to the iuaJitution five thousand dollars. 



CHAPTER VI. 

NEW YORK. 

In 1609, Henry Hudson, an Englishman, but sailing in 
the service of the Dutch East India Company, discovered 
Lonff Island, the harbor of New York, and the river to 
which his name has been given. In 1613, several Dutch 
merchants, to whom the republic of Holland had granted 
the exclusive right of trading to this part of America, 
erected a fort near Albany, which they named fort Orange, 
and a few trading houses on the island of New York, then 
called by the Indians, Manhattan. 

2. In the same year, captain Argal, who had been sent 
by Virginia to drive the French from their settlements on 
the bay of Fundy, visited, on his return, the Dutch on 
Hudson's river. Claiming the country for his nation, by 
right of prior discovery, he demanded the acknowledgment 
of its authority. Being few in number, they prudently 
submitted, without attempting to resist. 

3. But receiving a reinforcement, the next year, they 
again asserted the right of Holland to the country, and 
erected fort Amsterdam, on the south end of the island. 
The English, for many years, forbore to interfere in their 
pursuits or claims. In 1621, the republic, desirous of 
founding a colony in America, granted to the Dutch West 
India Company, an extensive territory on both sides of the 
Hudson. The country was called New Netherlands. The 
boundaries were not accurately defined, but were con- 
sidered, by the company, as including Connecticut river at 
the north, and Delaware river at the south. 

4. In 1623, they erected a fort on the Delaware, which 
they called Nassau ; and, ten years afterwards, another on 
the Connecticut, which they called Good Hope. Near the 
former, the Swedes had a settlement. From the inter- 
fering claims of the two nations, quarrels arose between 
the settlers, which, after continuing several years, termi- 
nated in the subjugation of the Swedes. Towards the 
fort on the Connecticut, the settlements of the English 
rapidly approached, and soon occasioned disputes, wliich 
had a longer duration and a different result. 

5. The Dutch did not escape the calamity of war with 
the savages. Hostilities commenced in 1643, continued 
several years, and were very destructive to both parties. 



NEW YORK. 69 

William Kieft, the ffovernor of the New Netherlands, 
invited captain Underhill, who had been a soldier in Europe, 
and had made himself conspicuous in New Hampshire, by 
his eccentricities in religion and conduct, to take command 
of his troops. Collecting a flying party of one hundred and 
fifty men, he was enabled to preserve the Dutch settlements 
from total destruction. The number of Indians, whom he 
killed in the course of the war, was supposed to exceed 
four hundred. In 1646, a severe battle was fought on that 
part of Horse-neck called Strickland's Plain. The Dutch 
were victorious; on both sides great numbers were slain; 
and for a century afterwards the graves of the dead were 
distinctly visible. 

6. In 1650, Peter Stuyvesant, then the able governor 
of the New Netherlands, met the commissioners of the 
New England colonies at Hartford, where, after much 
altercation, a line of partition between their respective 
territories was fixed by mutual agreement Long Island 
was divided between them ; the Dutch retained the lands 
which they occupied in Connecticut, surrendering their 
claim to the residue. 

7. But Charles II., denying their right to any portion of 
the country, determined to expel them from it. In 1664, 
he granted to his brother, the duke of York and Albany, 
the territory from Connecticut river to Delaware bay; 
and though England and Holland were then at peace, 
immediately sent three ships and three hundred troops to 
put him in possession of his grant. Colonel Robert Nichols 
conducted the expedition. The squadron, having visited 
Boston, reached the place of its destination in August. 

8. The commander summoned governor Stuyvesant to 
surrender the town, promising to secure to the inhabitants 
their lives, liberty, and property. At first, he refused ; 
but the magistrates and people, allured by the proffered 
terms, constrained him to consent Fort Orange surren- 
dered, soon after, to sir George Carteret In compliment 
to the duke, the name Manhattan was changed to New 
York, and Orange to Albany. 

9. Nichols assumed the government of the country he 
had conquered, and continued, for three years, to rule over 
it with absolute power, but with great lenity and justice. 
During his administration. New York was made a city. 
Upon his return to England, he was succeeded by colonel 
Lovelace, who administered the government with equal 
moderation. 



70 NEW YORK. 

10. In 1673, England and Holland being then at war, a 
few Dutch ships were despatched to reconquer the country. 
On their arrival at Staten Island, a short distance from the 
city, John Manning, who had command of the fort, sent 
down a messenger, and treacherously made terms with the 
enemy. The Dutch sailed up the harbor, landed their 
men, and took possession of the fort and city, without 
firing or receiving a shot. 

11. Captain Anthony Colve was appointed governor, but 
he retained the authority for a few months only. The 
next year, peace was concluded, and the country restored 
to the Enghsh. The duke obtained a new patent, confirm- 
ing his title to the province, and appointed major Andross, 
the same who was afterwards the tyrant of New England, 
to be governor over his territories in America. 

12. Neither the administration of Andross, nor that of 
his successor, Anthony Brockholst, was distinguished by 
any remarkable event. In 1682, colonel Thomas Dongan, 

'ho, as well as the Duke, was a Roman Catholic, was 
appointed Governor, and the next year arrived in the colony. 
Until this time, the governor and council had possessed 
absolute power. The inhabitants, who, whether Dutch 
or English, were born the subjects of a state comparatively 
free, having, in an address to the duke, claimed a share in 
the legislative authority, colonel Dongan was directed to 
allow the freeholders to meet and choose representatives. 

13. On the 17th of October, the first assembly met, 
consisting of the council and eighteen representatives. 
By the declaration of the governor, they were invested 
with the sole power of enacting laws and levying taxes ; 
but the laws could have no force until ratified by the duke. 
With this participation of power, the people were gratified 
and contented; and the colony began to enjoy the inesti- 
mable advantages of a regular government. 

14. The interior of New York was originally inhabited 
by a confederacy which consisted at first of five, and after- 
wards of six nations of Indians. This confederacy was 
formed for mutual defence against the Algonquins, a pow- 
erful Canadian nation, and displayed muchof the wisdom 
and sagacity which mark the institutions of a civilized 
people. By their union, they had become formidable to 
the surrounding tribes. Being the allies of the English, 
the French were alarmed at their success, and became 
jealous of their power. 

15. In 1684, De la Barre, the governor of Canada, 



NEW YORK. 71 

marched to attack them, with an army of seventeen hun- 
dred men. His troops suffered so much from hardships, 
famine and sickness, that he was compelled to ask peace 
of those whom he had come to exterminate. He invited 
the chiefs of the Five Nations to meet him at his camp, 
and those of three of them accepted the invitation. 
Standing in a circle, formed by the chiefs and his own 
officers, he addressed a speech to Garrangula, of the 
Onondago tribe, in which he accused the confederates of 
conducting the English to the trading grounds of the 
French, and threatened them with war and extermination 
if they did not alter their behavior. 

16. Garrangula, knowing the distresses of the French 
troops, heard these threats with contempt. After walking 
five or six times round the circle, he addressed the follow- 
ing bold and sarcastic language to De laBarre, calling him 
Yonnondio, and the English governor, Corlear. 

17. "Yonnondio, I honor you, and the warriors that are 
with me likewise honor you. Your interpreter has finished 
your speech; I now begin mine. My words make haste 
to reach your ears; harken to them. Yonnondio, you 
must have believed, when you left Quebec, that the sun 
had consumed all the forests which render our country 
inaccessible to the^ French, or that the great lakes had 
overflown their banks and surrounded our castles, so that 
it was impossible for us to get out of them. Yes, Yon- 
nondio, you must have dreamed so, and the curiosity of so 

freat a wonder has brought you so far. Now you are un- 
eceived, for I, and the warriors here present, are come to 
assure you, that the Senecas,Cayugas, Onondagos, Oney- 
does, and Mohawks, are yet alive. 

18. "I thank you, in their name, for bringing back into 
tlieir country the pipe of peace, which your predecessor 
received from their hands. It was happy for you that 
vou left under ground that murdering hatchet which has 
been so often dyed in the blood of the French. Hear, 
Yonnondio, I do not sleep ; I have my eyes open, and the 
sun which enlightens me, discovers to me a great captain, 
at the head of a company of soldiers, who speaks as if he 
was dreaming. He says that he only came' to smoke the 
great pipe of peace with the Onondagos. But Garrangula 
says, that he sees the contrary; that it was to knock them 
on the head, if sickness had not weakened the arms of the 
French. 

19. " We carried the Enghsh to our lakes, to trade there 



72 NEW YORK. 

with the Utawawas and Quato^hies, as the Adirondacg 
brought the French to our castles to carry on a trade which 
the English say is tlieirs. We are born free ; we neither 
depend on Yonnondio nor Corlear. We may go where we 
please, and buy and sell what we please. If your allies 
are your slaves, use them as such; command them to 
receive no other but your people. 

20. "Hoar, Yonnondio; what I say is the voice of all 
the Five Nations. When they buried the hatchet at 
Cadaracui, in the middle of the fort, they planted the tree 
of peace in the same place, to be there carefully preserved, 
that, instead of a retreat for soldiers, the fort might be a 
rendezvous for merchants. Take care that the many 
soldiers who appear there, do not choke the tree of peace, 
and prevent it from covering your country and ours with 
its branches. I assure you that our warriors shall dance 
under its leaves, and will never dig up the hatchet to cut 
it down, till their brother Yonnondio or Corlear shall 
invade the country which the Great Spirit has given to 
our ancestors." 

21. De la Barre was mortified and enraged at this bold 
reply; but, submitting to necessity, he concluded a treaty 
of peace, and returned to Montreal. His successor, De 
NonviDe, led a larger army against the confederates ; but 
fell into an ambuscade and was defeated These wars 
within the limits of the colony, kept colonel Dongan 
actively employed, and served to perpetuate the enmity 
of the Indians against the French, and their attachment 
to the EnMish. 

22. In tlie mean time, the duke of York ascended the 
throne of England. Claiming unlimited authority as king, 
and professing the Cathohc religion, he was hated and 
feared by a great portion of the inhabitants, who were 
devoted to the cause of freedom, and to the principles of 
the Protestants. The governor was also an object of their 
dislike and distrust. Catholics, countenanced by him, 
repaired in great numbers to the colony, and pious Protest- 
ants trembled for their religion. 

23. In the beginning of the year 1689, information was 
received from England that the people had resolved to 
dethrone their sovereign, and offer the crown to WiDiam, 
prince of Orange; and from Massachusetts, that the 
citizens had deposed and imprisoned sir Edmund Andross, 
their governor. This encouraged the disaffected, and 
presented an example for their imitation. 



NEW YORK. rs 

24. Several militia captains assembled to determine on 
the measures expedient to ha adopted. Of these, Jacob 
Leisler was the most active. He was destitute of every 
qualification necessary to conduct a difficult enterprise, 
but possessed the esteem and confidence of the other 
officers, and of the people. Milborne, his son-in-law, 
concerted all his measures, and controlled his conduct. 

25. They determined to obtain possession of the fort. 
Leisler entered it with fifty men, and published a declara- 
tion in favor of the prince of Orange. The magistrates 
and most respectable citizens discountenanced the pro- 
ceeding, and, at first, but few had the courage to declare 
themselves his friends. To induce them to act, a report 
was circulated that three ships, with orders from the 
prince, were sailing up the harbor. His party was instantly 
augmented by six captains, and nearly five hundred men, 
a force sufficient to overpower all opposition. 

26. Before these disturbances, colonel Dongan had re- 
signed his office, and embarked for England. Lieutenant- 
governor Nicholson, unable to contend with Leisler, 
absconded in the night. The province being thus left 
without a chief magistrate, Leisler was promoted, by his 
adherents, to that station. He sent an address to king- 
William and queen Mary, whose authority he acknowl- 
edged, and soon after, a private letter to the king, ex- 
pressing, in low and incorrect language, the warmest 
protestations of loyalty and zeal. 

27. His sudden elevation excited the envy of those 
magistrates and citizens who had declined to join him in 
proclaiming king William. Bayard and Courtlandt, unable 
to raise a party against him in the city, retired to Albany, 
where their exertions were successful. To diminish their 
influence, and to allay the jealousy of others, he invited 
several worthy citizens to unite with him in administering 
the government, a trust which had been confided to him 
alone, by the militia. 

28. In a few months, however, a letter arrived from the 
ministry in England, directed "to such as,forthe time be- 
ing, take care for administering the laws of the province," 
and conferring authority to perform all the duties of heu- 
tenant-governor. Leisler considered this letter addressed 
to himself, assumed the authority conferred, appointed his 
council, and issued commissions in his own name. 

29. The people of Albany, led by Bayard, Courtlandt, 



74 NEW YORK. 

and Livingston, acknowledged king William, but refused to 
submit to Leisler. Milborne was sent with a body of 
troops to enforce obedience, but, finding them united, he 
returned without attempting it. The next spring, going 
with a stronger force, he succeeded. The leaders of ihe 
party fled, and their property was confiscated. This 
arbitrary and unjust measure so exasperated the sufferers, 
that they and their posterity long retained the most violent 
animosity against Leisler and his adherents. 

30. During these troubles in the colony, war was de- 
clared between France and England. De Nonville being 
recalled, count Frontenac was appointed governor of 
Canada. In January, 1690, he despatched several parties 
against the English settlements. One of these, consisting 
of Frenchmen and Caghnuaga Indians, was sent against 
Albany, but resolved to attack Schenectady. To the 
inhabitants of this village, information was given of their 
danger; but they,judgmg it impossible for the enemy to 
march several hundred miles in the depth of winter, disre- 
garded the intelligence. No regular watch was kept, nor 
military order observed. 

31. The French and Indians arrived near the town on 
the eighth of February. They divided their number into 
small parties, that every house might be invested at the 
same time. On Saturday night, at eleven o'clock, they 
entered at the gates, which they found unshut. The in- 
habitants having retired to rest, universal stillness reigned. 
Suddenly, in every quarter, the horrid yell was heard. 
They sprang from their beds, conscious of the danger 
which surrounded them. Opening their doors, they met 
the savages, with uplifted tomahawks, on the threshold. 
Each, at the same instant, heard the cry of his affrighted 
neighbor. Soon succeeded the groans of the dying. In a 
few minutes, the buildings were on fire. Women were 
butchered, and children thrown alive into the flames. The 
Indians, frantic from slaughter, ran, with fatal haste, 
through the village, massacring many, who, in their 
attempts to escape, were betrayed by the light of their 
own houses. 

32. Some eluded their pursuers; but a fate almost as 
dreadful awaited them. They were naked ; a furious 
Btorm came on ; Albany, their only refuge, was at a dis- 
tance; and often their terror converted into savages the 
trees and wild beasts which they saw in their flighu Part 



NEW YORK. 7?« 

ai rived in safety; twenty-five lost their limbs by the 
severity of the cold. At Schenectady, sixty were kille<^, 
and twenty-five made prisoners. 

33. To avenge these barbarities, and others perpetrated 
in New England, a combined expedition against Canada 
was projected. An army, raised in New York and Con- 
necticut, proceeded as far as the head of lake Champlain, 
whence, finding no boats prepared, they were obliged to 
return. Sir William Phipps, with a fleet of more than 
thirty vessels, sailed from jBoston into the St. Lawrence, 
and, landing a body of troops, made an attack by land and 
water upon Quebec; but the return of the army to New 
York, allowing the whole force of the enemy to repair to 
the assistance of the garrison, he was obhged to abandon 
the enterprise. To the misconduct or incapacity of 
Leisler and Milborne, the failure of this expedition was 
attributed. 

34. As soon as king William could find leisure to attend 
to his colonies, he appointed colonel Henry Sloughter 
governor of New York. Never was a governor more 
necessary to the province, and never, perhaps, has it been 
ruled by one less qualified for the station. He was desti- 
tute of talents, licentious, avaricious, and a bankrupt. 

35. He arrived in March, 1691, and sent a major In- 
goldsby to demand entrance into the fort, then in posses- 
sion of Leisler. The major, having twice applied, re- 
poried to Sloughter that his second demand was con- 
temptuously refused ; but a letter written by Leisler 
shows that he was desirous only of receiving a written or- 
der that should ensure his future safety. Milbourne had 
then been arrested and imprisoned. 

36. The next day Leisler was arrested, and he and 
Milbourne were soon after brought to trial, before judges 
appointed for the purpose. In vain did they remind the 
court of their zeal for king William. In vain did Leisler 
insist that the letter from England authorised him to ad- 
minister the government. They were now in the power 
of their exasperated antagonists, were pronounced guilty 
of high treason, and sentenced to be executed. 

37. Soon after their trial, the affairs of the province 
required Sloughter's presence at Albany. The faction 
opposed to them, entreated him, before his departure, to 
sign the warrant for their execution; but he, unwilling 
to sacrifice two men, who, though they had sometimes 
erred, had served his master with zeal, refused. Unable 



•^6 NEW YORK. 

to effect their purpose by persuasion, they resorted to a 
detestable expedient. A sumptuous feast was prepared, 
to which the governor was invited. When he had drunk 
to intoxication, they presented him the warrant, which he 
signed, and when he nad recovered his senses, the prison- 
ers were no more. 

38. On appHcation to the king, their estates, which had 
been confiscated, were restored to their heirs. Their 
bodies were afterwards taken up and interred, with great 
pomp, in the old Dutch church; and their descendants arc 
considered honored, rather than disgraced, by the conduct 
and fall of their ancestors. 

39. In July, 1691, Sloughter, having returned from 
Albany, ended, by a sudden death, a short, weak, and 
turbulent administration. About the same time, major 
Peter Schuyler, at the head of three hundred Mohawks, 
made a sudden and bold attack upon the French settle- 
ments, at the north end of lake Champlain. An army of 
eight hundred men was despatched from Montreal to 
oppose him. With these he had several irregular, but 
successful conflicts ; in which he killed a number of the 
enemy, greater than that of his whole party. 

40. In 1692, colonel Fletcher arrived as successor to 
Sloughter. He was a good soldier, was active, avaricious, 
and passionate. From the talents and information of major 
Schuyler, he derived great assistance, and was governed 
by his advice, particularly in transactions relative to the 
Indians. 

41. As a great portion of the inhabitants were Dutch, 
all the governors, to produce uniformity in religion and 
language, had encouraged English preachers and school- 
masters to settle in the colony. No one pursued this ob- 
ject with more zeal than Fletcher, who was devoted to the 
church of England. Attwo successive sessions, he rec- 
ommended the subject to the attention of the assembly; 
but the members, being generally attached to the church 
of Holland, disregarded liis recommendations. For this 
neglect, he gave them a severe reprimand. 

42. The subject being laid before them, at a su jsequent 
session, they passed a bill providing for the settlement, in 
certain parishes, of ministers of the gospel, to be chosen 
by the people. The council added an amendment, giving 
to the governor the power of approval or rejection. The 
house refused to concur in the amendment, at which 
Fletcher was so much enraged, that he commanded them 



NEW YORK. 77 

instantly to attend him, and, addressing them in an angry 
speech, prorogued them to the next year. 

43. In 1697, a peace, which gave security and repose to 
the colonies, was concluded between Great Britain and 
France. The next year, the earl of Bellamont, who had 
been appointed the successor of Fletcher, arrived in the 
colony. Before he left England, he was requested to 
clear the American seas of the pirates who infested them, 
and, while there, engaged, with others, in a private un- 
dertaking against them. 

44. The associates, procuring a vessel of war, gave 
the command of it k) a captain Kid, then in England, who 
had been recommended as a man of integrity and courage, 
and sent him, first to New York, and thence to cruise 
against the pirates. He had been but a short time at 
sea, when, disregarding his instructions, he made a new 
contract with his crew, and, on the Atlantic and Indian 
oceans, became himself a daring, atrocious, and success- 
ful pirate. 

45. Three years afterwards, he returned, burned his 
ship, and, with a strange infatuation, appeared publicly at 
Boston. He was apprehended and sent to England, where 
he was tried and executed. The earl and his partners, 
some of whom resided in England, were accused of 
sharing in his plunder, but in all his examinations he 
declared them innocent. 

46. Notwithstanding the death of Leisler, the people 
were still divided into Leislerians and anti-Leislerians. 
Fletcher had been the instrument of the latter; lord 
Bellamont espoused the cause of the former. He, how- 
ever, persecuted no one ; but exercised authority with 
justice and moderation. He died in 1701. 

47. The next year, lord Cornbury was appointed gov- 
ernor. He presented a striking proof of the folly of heredi- 
tary distinctions. He was the grandson of the celebrated 
earl of Clarendon ; but possessed not one of the virtues of 
his ancestor. Mean, profligate, and unprincipled, he was 
a burden to his friends at home, and was sent to America 
to be beyond the reach of his creditors. 

48. He declared himself an anti-Leislerian, and the first 
assembly that he summoned was composed principally of 
men of that party. They presented him two thousand 
pounds to defray the expenses of his voyage. They raised 
several sums of moneyforpublic purposes, but the expendi- 
ture being intrusted to him as governor, he appropriated 
most of it to his own use. 

H 



73 NEW YORK. 

49. His acts of injustice and oppression, his prodigality, 
his indecent and vulgar manners, rendered him universally 
odious. In 1708, the assemblies of Nevir York and of 
New Jersey, of which colony he was also governor, com- 
plained to the queen of his misconduct. She removed him 
from office ; he was soon after arrested by his creditors, 
and remained in custody until the death of his illustrious 
father, when he returned to England and took his seat in 
the house of lords. 

50. A proceeding of the house of representatives, near 
the close of his administration, ought not to be passed over 
without notice. Wearied by their sufferings, they ap- 
pointed a committee of grievances, who reported a series 
ofresolutions having reference to recent transactions,which 
resolutions were adopted by the house. One of them, in 
explicit language, asserted the principle, "that the impos- 
ing and levying of any moneys upon her majesty's subjects 
of this colony, under any pretence or color whatsoever, 
without consent in general assembly, is a grievance and a 
violation of the people's property." It is not uninstructive 
to observe how early, in some of the colonies, were sown 
the seeds of the American revolution. 

51. In 1710, general Hunter, who had been appointed 
governor, arrived in the province. He brought with him 
near three thousand Germans, some of whom settled in 
New York, and some in Pennsylvania. The latter trans- 
mitted to their native land such favorable accounts of the 
country which they had chosen for their residence, that 
many others followed and settled in that colony. The 
numerous descendants of these Germans are honest, indus- 
trious, and useful citizens. 

52. The prodigality of lord Cornbury had taught the 
assembly an important lesson. Before his removal, they 
had obtained from the queen permission, in case of special 
appropriations, to appoint their own treasurer. They now 
passed a bill confiding to this officer the disbursement of 
certain sums appropriated for ordinary purposes. The 
council proposed an amendment. The house denied the 
right of that body to amend a money bill. Both continuing 
obstinate, the governor prorogued them, and at their next 
session dissolved them. 

53. At this time, war existed between England and 
France. In 1709, expensive preparations were made for 
an attack upon Canada, but the promised assistance not 
arriving from England, the enterprise was abandoned. In 



NEW YORK. 79 

1711, the project was resumed. A fleet sailed up the 
St. Lawrence, to attack Quebec; and an army of four 
thousand men, raised by New York, New Jersey, and 
Connecticut, marched to invade Canada, by the route of 
lake Champlain. The fleet, shattered by a storm, was 
compelled to return. The army, informedof the disasters 
of the fleet, returned also, having accompHshed nothing. 

54. The people, approving the conduct of their represen- 
tatives in relation to the revenue, had re-elected nearly all 
of them, and they were now in session. To defray the 
expenses of the late expedition, they passed several bills 
which were amended in the council. Between these two 
bodies, another contest ensued. The representatives, de- 
riving their authority from the people, considered them- 
selves bound to watch over the expenditure of their money. 
The council, deriving their authority from the same source 
as the governor, were desirous of increasing his influence 
by giving him the management of the revenue. During 
this, ana a subsequent session, both continued inflexible. 
The governor, provoked at the obstinacy of the represen- 
tatives, dissolved the assembly. 

55. At the ensuing election, which was warmly con- 
tested, most of the members chosen were opposed to the 
governor. This assembly was dissolved by the death of 
the queen. The next was dissolved by the governor, soon 
after it first met, a majority of the representatives being 
known to be unfriendly to his views. The people became 
weary of contending. Most of the members chosen at the 
succeeding election, were his friends and partisans, and, 
for several years, the utmost harmony existed between 
the different branches of the government. 

56. Governor Hunter quitted the province in 1719, and 
his authority devolved on Peter Schuyler, the oldest mem- 
ber of the council. The next year, William Burnet, son 
of the celebrated bishop of that name, was appointed gov- 
ernor. Turning his attention towards the wilderness, he 
perceived that the French, in order to connect their settle- 
ments in Canada and Louisiana, to secure to themselves 
the Indian trade, and to confine the English to the sea 
coast, were busily employed in erecting a chain of forts 
from the St. Lawrence to the Mississippi. 

57. He endeavored to defeat their design, by building a 
trading house, and afterwards a fort, at Oswego, on lake 
Ontario. But the French had the command of more 
abundant resources, and applied them to the accomplish- 



80 NEW YORK. 

ment of their object, with great activity and zeal. They 
launched two vessels upon the lake; and, going fa/ther 
into the wilderness, erected a fort at Niagara, commanding 
the entrance into it; they had previously erected fort 
Frontenac, commanding the outlet. 

58. The assembly, elected in 1716, had been so obse- 
quious to the governor, that he continued it in existence 
until the clamors of the people induced him, in 1727, to 
dissolve it. That which next met, was composed entirely 
of his opponents. The court of chancery, in which he 
presided, had become exceedingly unpopular. It had been 
mstituted by an ordinance of the governor and council, 
without the concurrence of the assembly ; the mode of 
proceeding was novel; and some of the decisions had 
given great offence to powerful individuals. The house 
passed resolutions declaring it "a manifest oppression 
and grievance," and intimating that its decrees were void. 
The governor instantly called the assembly before him, 
and dissolved it. 

59. Being soon after appointed governor of Massachu- 
setts, he was succeeded by colonel Montgomery, upon 
whose death, in 1731, the supreme authority devolved 
upon Rip Van Dam, the senior member of the council. 
Under his short and inefficient administration, the French 
were permitted to erect a fort at Crown Point, within ihe 
acknowledged boundaries of New York, from v.'liich par- 
ties of savages were often secretly despatched to destroy 
the English settlements. 

60. Van Dam was superseded by Wilham Cosby, who 
arrived in August, 1732. Having been the advocate, in 
parliament, of the American colonies, he was at hrst 
popular, but soon lost the affection and confidence of the 
people. By his instigation, one Zenger, the printer of a 
newspaper, was prosecuted for publishing an article de- 
clared to be derogatory to the dignity of his majesty's 
government. He was zealously defended by able counsel, 
and an independent jury gave a verdict of acquittal. The 
people applauded their conduct, and the magistrates of the 
city of New York presented to Andrew Hamilton, one of 
his defenders, the freedom of the city, in a gold box, and 
their thanks for "his learned and generous defence of the 
rights of mankind, and the liberty of the press." 

61. Governor Cosby died in 1736, and was succeeded 
by George Clark, at that time senior counsellor, but soon 
after appointed heutenant-governor. Again was revived 



NEW YORK. 81 

the contest which had ended, twenty years before, in the 
victory gained by e:overnor Hunter, over the house of 
representatives. The colony being in debt, the house 
voted to raise the sum of six thousand pounds; but, in 
order to prevent its misapphcation, declared, that it should 
be applied to the payment of certain specified debts. 
OU'ended by this vote, Clark resorted to the expedient 
which had usually been adopted to punish or intimidate; 
he immediately dissolved the assembly. 

62. At the next election, great exertions were made by 
the opposing parties. The popular party was triumphant. 
At their second session, the house voted an address to the 
lieutenant-governor, which is worthy of particular notice. 
In bold and explicit language, they state some of the vital 
principles of free government, refer to recent misapplica- 
tions of money, and proceed : — 

63. "We therefore beg leave to be plain with your 
honor, and hope you will not take it amiss when we tell 
you, that you are not to expect that we will either raise 
sums unfit to be raised, or put what we shall raise into 
tlie power of a governor to misapply, if we can prevent 
it; nor shall we make up any other deficiencies than 
what we conceive are fit and just to be paid; nor con- 
tinue what support or revenue we shall raise, for any 
longer time than one year ; nor do we think it convenient 
to do even that, until such laws are passed as we conceive 
necessary for the safety of the inhabitants of this colony, 
who have reposed a trust in us for that only purpose, and 
which we are sure you will think it reasonable we should 
act agreeably to; and by the grace of God we shall 
endeavor not to deceive them." 

64. With a body of men, so resolute in asserting their 
rights, the lieutenant-governor wisely forbore to contend. 
He thanked them for their address, and promised his 
cordial co-operation in all measures calculated to promote 
the prosperity of the colony. He gave his assent to a 
law providing for the more frequent election of represen- 
tatives ; which law, however, two years afterwards, was 
abrogated by the king. 

65. But between a house of representatives and a chief 
magistrate, deriving their authority from different sources, 
harmony could not Tong subsist. Mr. Clark, in his speech 
at the opening of the next session, declared that unless 
the revenue was granted for as long a time as it had been 
granted by former assembhes, his duty to his majesty 

h 



82 NEW YORK. 

forbade him from assenting to any act for continuing the 
excise, or for paying the colonial bills of credit. The 
houseunanimously resolved, that it would not pass any bill 
for the grant of money, unless assurance should be given 
that the excise should be continued and the bills of credit 
redeemed. 

66. The lieutenant-governor immediately ordered the 
members to attend him. He told them that "their pro- 
ceedings v^^ere presumptuous, daring, and unprecedented; 
that he could not look upon them vv^ithout astonishment, 
nor with honor suffer the house to sit any longer ;" and he 
accordingly dissolved it. Little more than a year had 
elapsed, since the members were chosen ; but in that time 
they had, by their firm and spirited conduct, in support of 
the rights of the people, merited the gratitude of their 
constituents. 

67. In the year 1741, a supposed "negro plot" occasion- 
ed great commotion and alarm in the city of New York. 
The frequent occurrence of fires, most of which were 
evidently caused by design, first excited the jealousy and 
suspicion of the citizens. Terrified by danger which 
lurked unseen in the midst of them, they listened with 
eager credulity to the declaration of some abandoned 
females, that the negroes had combined to burn the city 
and make one of their number governor. Many were 
arrested and committed to prison. Other witnesses, not 
more respectable than the first, came forward; other 
negroes were accused, and even several white men were 
designated as concerned in the plot. 

68. When the time of trial arrived, so strong was the 
prejudice against the miserable negroes, thatevery lawyer 
m the city volunteered against them. Ignorant and 
unassisted, nearly all who were tried were condemned. 
Fourteen were sentenced to be burned, eighteen to be hung, 
seventy-one to be transported, and all these sentences 
were executed. Of the whites two were convicted and 
suffered death. 

69. All apprehension of danger having subsided, many 
began to doubt whether any plot had in fact been concerted. 
None of the witnesses were persons of credit, their stories 
were extravagant and often contradictory ; and the project 
was such as none but fools or madmen would form. The 
two white men were respectable ; one had received a 
liberal education, but he was a Catholic, and the prejudice 
against Catholics was too violent to permit the free exer- 



NEW YORK. 83 

cise of reason. Some of the accused were doubtless ffuilty 
of setting fire to the city ; but the proof of the alleged plot 
was not sufficiently clear to justify the numerous and cruel 
punishments that were inflicted. 

70. In April, 1740, the assembly again met. It had 
now risen to importance in the colony. The adherence of 
the representatives to their determination, not to grant the 
revenue for more than one year, made annual meetings 
of the assembly necessary. This attachment to liberty 
was mistaken for the desire of independence. Lieutenant- 
governor Clark, in a speech delivered in 1741, alludes to 
"a jealousy which for some years had obtained in Eng- 
land, that the plantations were not without thoughts of 
throwing off their dependence on the crown." 

71. In 1743, George Clinton was sent over as governor 
of the colony. Like most of his predecessors he was 
welcomed with joy; and one of his earliest measures 
confirmed the favorable accounts, which had preceded 
him, of his talents and liberality. To show his willingness 
to repose confidence in the people, he assented to a bill 
limiting the duration of the present and all succeeding 
assemblies. The house manifested its gratitude by 
adopting the measures he recommended for the defence 
of theprovince against the t'rencn, who were then at war 
with England. 

72. In 1745, the savages in alliance with France made 
frequent invasions of the English territories. The inhab- 
itants were compelled to desert Hosick ; Saratoga was 
destroyed ; The western settlements in New England were 
often attacked and nlundered. Encouraged by success, 
the enemy became more daring, and small parties ventured 
within the suburbs of Albany, and there lay in wait for 
prisoners. It is even said that one Indian, called Tomon- 
wilemon, often entered the city and succeeded in taking 
captives. 

73. Distressed by these incursions, the assembly, in 
1746, determined to unite with the other colonies and the 
mother country in an expedition against Canada. They 
appropriated money to purchase provisions for the army, 
and offered liberal bounties to recruit. But the fleet from 
England did not arrive at the appointed time ; the other 
colonies were dilatory in their preparations, and before 
thev were completed, the season for military operations 
had passed away. 

74 But in October, 1748, a treaty was concluded, and 



84 NEW JERSEY. 

the inhabitants were, for a short period, relieved from the 
burdens and distresses of war. During the interval of 
peace, no event of importance happened in the colony. 
Upon the recurrence, a few years afterwards, of hostilities, 
its territory was the theatre, of sanguinary conflicts. But 
of that war, in which all the colonies acted in concert, a 
connected history will be hereafter given. 



CHAPTER VII. 

NEW JERSEY 

The first settlement within the limits of New Jersey 
was made by the Danes, about the year 1624, at a place 
called Bergen, from a city of that name in Norway. Soon 
afterwards, several Dutch famihes seated themselves in 
the vicinity of New York. In 1626, a company was 
formed in Sweden, under the patronage of king Gustavus 
Adolphus, for the purpose of planting a colony in America. 
The next year, a number of Swedes and Finns came over, 
purchased of the natives the land on both sides of the river 
Delaware, but made their first settlement on its western 
bank, near Christina creek. 

2. About the year 1640, the English began a plantation 
at EJsingburgh, on its eastern bank. The Swedes, in 
concert with the Dutch who then possessed New York, 
drove them out of the country. The former built a fort 
on the spot whence the English had been driven ; and, 
gaining thus the command of the river, claimed and exer- 
cised authority over all vessels that entered it, even those 
of the Dutch, their late associates. 

3. They continued in possession of the country, on both 
sides of the Delaware, until 1655, when Peter Stuyvesant, 
governor of the New Netherlands, having obtained assist- 
ance from Holland, conquered all their posts and trans- 
ported most of the Swedes to Europe. The Dutch were 
now in possession of the territory, comprising, at this time, 
the states ef New Jersey, New York, and Delaware. 

4. Soon, however, this territory changed masters. King 
Charles II., having granted it to the duke of York, sent an 
armament, in 1664, to wrest it from the Dutch. After 
reducing New York, the squadron proceeded to the settle- 
ments on the Delaware, which immediately submitted. 



NEW JERSEY. 85 

In the same year, the duke conveyed that portion of his 
grant lying between Hudson and Delaware rivers, to lord 
Berkeley, and sir George Carteret. This tract was called 
New Jersey, in compliment to sir George, who had been 
governor of the island of Jersey, and had held it for king 
Charles in his contest with the parhament. 

5. The two proprietors formed a constitution for the 
colony, securing equal privileges and liberty of conscience 
to all, and appointed Philip Carteret governor. He came 
over in 1665, fixed the seat of government at Elizabeth- 
town, purchased land of the Indians, and sent agents into 
New England to invite settlers from that quarter. The 
terms offered were so favorable that many accepted tlie 
invitation. 

6. A few years afterwards, the repose of the colony began 
to be disturbed by domestic disputes. Some of the inhabit- 
ants, having purchased their lands of the Indians previous 
to the conveyance from the duke, refused to pay rent to 
the proprietors. Others were discontented from different 
causes. In 1672, an insurrection took place, the people 
assumed the government, and chose James Carteret, the 
son of Philip, their governor. The father returned to 
England, ana obtained from the proprietors such favorable 
concessions and promises as quieted the people, and in- 
duced them again to submit to his authority. 

7. Lord Berkeley disposed of his property, rights, and 
privileges in the territory, to Edward Billinge ; and he, 
tseing involved in debt, consented that they should be sold 
for the benefit of his creditors. William Penn, Gawen 
Lowrie, and Nicholas Lucas, were appointed trustees for 
that purpose. In 1676, the trustees and sir George Car- 
teret made partition of the territory, they taking the western 
and he the eastern portion. 

8. West Jersey was then divided into one hundred 
shares, which were separately sold. Some of the purchas- 
ers, emigrated to the country, and all made great exertions 
to promote its population. Possessing the powers of gov- 
ernment, as well as the right of soil, they formed a consti- 
tution, in which, for the encouragement of emigrants, they 
secured to them ample privileges. 

9. But previous to the transfer, from Berkeley to Billinge, 
the Dutch being at war with England, reconquered me 
country, and retained it, until 1674, when it was restored 
by treaty. A new patent was then granted to the duke, 
including the same territory as the former. In 1678, sir 



86 NEW JERSEY. 

Edmund Andross, whohad been appointed his sole governor 
in America, claimed jurisdiction over the Jerseys, insisting* 
that the conquest by the Dutch divested the proprietors 
of all their rights. 

10. He forcibly seized, transported to New York, and 
there imprisoned those magistrates who refused to ac- 
knowledge his authority. He imposed a duty upon allgoods 
imported, and upon the property of all who came to settle 
in the country. Of this injustice the inhabitants loudly 
complained to the duke; and at length their repeated 
remonstrances constrained him to refer the matter to 
commissioners. 

11. Before them the proprietors appeared. In strong 
language they asserted, and by strong arguments support- 

-ed, their claim to the privileges of freemen. They repre- 
sented that the king had granted to the duke the right of 
fovernment as weU as the right of soil. That the duke 
ad transferred the same rights to Berkeley and Carteret, 
and they to :he present proprietors. 

12. "That only, "they added, "could have induced us 
to purchase lands and emigrate. And the reason is plain, 
to all prudent men, the government of any place is more 
inviting than the soil ; for what is good land without ffood 
lawsl What but an assurance that we should enjoy civil 
and religious privileges, could have tempted us to leave a 
cultivated country, and resort to a gloomy wilderness! 
What have we gained, if after adventuring m this wilder- 
ness many thousands of pounds, we are yet to be taxed at 
the mere will and pleasure of another] What is it butt*- 
say, that people free by law under their prince at homes> 
are at his mercy in his plantations abroad] 

13. "We humbly say, that we have lost none of our 
liberty by leaving our country ; that the duty imposed upon 
us is without precedent or parallel; that, had we foreseen 
it, we should nave preferred any other plantation in Amer- 
ica. Besides, there is no limit to this power; since we 
are, by this precedent, taxed without any law, and thereby 
excluded from our English right of assenting to taxes ; 
what security have we of any thing we possess] We can 
call nothing our own, but are tenants at will, not only for 
the soil, but for our personal estates. Such conduct has 
destroyed governments, but never raised one to any true 
greatness." 

14. The commissioners adjudged the duties illegal and 
oppressive, and they were not afterwards demanded. 



DELAWARE. 87 

Emigrants continued to arrive and the country to prosper. 
In 1581, the governor of West Jersey summoned a gen- 
eral assembly, by which several fundamental laws were 
enacted, establishing the rights of the people, and defining 
the powers of rulers. 

15. In 1682, the territory of East Jersey passed from 
Carteret to William Penn, and twenty-three associates, 
mostly of the Quaker persuasion. They appointed Robert 
Barclay, author of the "Appology for the Quakers," gover- 
nor over it for life. The multitude of proprietors, and the 
frequent transfers and subdivisions of shares, introduced 
such confusion in titles to land, and such uncertainty as to 
the rights of government, that for twenty years afterwards, 
both Jerseys were in a state of continued disturbance and 
disorder. In 1702, the proprietors, weary of contending 
with each other, and with the people, surrendered the 
right of government to the crown. Queen Anne reunited 
the two divisions, and appointed lord Cornbury governor 
over the provinces of New Jersey and New York. 

16. These provinces continued, for several years, to be 
ruled by the same governor, but each chose a separate 
assembly. In 1738, the inhabitants, by petition to the 
king, desired that they might, in future, have a separate 
governor. Their request was granted, Lewis Morris being 
me first that was appointed. 

17. In the same year, a college was founded at Prince- 
ton and called Nassau Hall. New Jersey then contained 
above forty thousand inhabitants. Being remote from 
Canada, the source of most of the Indian wars which 
afflicted the northern colonies, it enjoyed a complete 
exemption from that terrible calamity, and until the com- 
mencement of the revolution, furnished no materials for 
history. 



CHAPTER VIII 

DELAWARE. 

The first settlement in this colony was projected b} 
Gustavus Adolphus, and was made by Swedes and Finns'. 
They came over in 1638, and landing at cape Henlopen, 
were so charmed with its appearance, that they gave it 
the name of Paradise Point. The country they called 



8R DELAWARE. 

New Sweden, and the river Delaware, New Swedeland 
stream. They purchased of the Indians the lands on both 
sides of the river, from the sea to the falls, and seated 
themselves at the mouth of Christina creek, near Wil- 
mington. 

2. Being frequently molested by the Dutch, who claimed 
a right to the country, they, for their protection, built forts 
at Christina, Lewistown, and Tinicum. The last was 
their seat of government, and there John Printz, their 
ffovernor, erected an elegant mansion, which he named 
Printz Hall. 

3. In 1651,the Dutch built afort at New Castle. Printz, 
considering this place to be within the Swedish territories, 
formerly protested against the proceeding. Risingh, his 
successor, made a visit under the guise of friendship, to 
the commander of the fort, and, being accompanied by thirty 
men, treachously took possession of it, while enjoying his 
hospitality. 

4. Peter Stuyvesant, the Dutch governor of New York, 
was not of a temper to permit an injury thus committed to 
pass unavenged. Accompanied by an armament, a part of 
which was furnished for the occasion by the city of Am- 
sterdam, in Holland, he, in 1655, returned the visit of the 
Swedes. He first reduced the fort at New Castle ; then 
that at Christina creek, where Risingh commanded ; and 
afterwards the others. Some of the Swedes, on taking 
the oath of allegiance to Holland, were permitted to re- 
main ; the rest were sent to Europe. 

5. The settlements on the Delaware continued under the 
control of the Dutch, until 1664, when the New Nether- 
lands were conquered by the English. They were then 
considered as a part of New York. In 1682, William 
Penn purchased of the duke of York, the town of New 
Castle, and the country twelve miles around it; and by a 
subsequent purchase, obtained the land lying upon the 
Delaware, and between New Castle and cape Henlopen. 
These tracts, which constitute the present state of Dela- 
ware, were called the "Territories," and were, for twenty 
years, governed as a part of Pennsylvania. 

6. They were divided into three counties, New Castle, 
Kent, and Sussex, each of which sent six delegates to the 
general assembly. In 1703, these delegates, dissatisfied 
with the last charter which Penn had prepared, and a 
majority of the assembly had adopted, seceded, and, liberty 
being given, formed a separate and distinct assembly. The 



PENNSYLVANIA. 89 

two portions of the province were never afterwards united, 
but the proprietor continued to possess the same jurisdic- 
tion, and the same person uniformly acted as governor 
over both. 

7. Sheltered by the surrounding provinces, Delaware 
enjoyed an entire exemption from wars, except those in 
which, as a part of the British empire, she was obliged to 
participate. In the war with France, which terminated 
m 1763, she was second to none in active zeal to assist 
the parent state. In the revolutionary war, the Deleware 
regiment was considered the most efficient in the conti- 
nental array. ^ 



CHAPTER IX. 

PENNSYLVANIA. 

William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, was the 
eon of sir William Penn, an admiral in the British navy. 
In his youth he joined the Quakers, then an obscure and 
persecuted sect. While superintending the settlement of 
New Jersey, he became acquainted with an extensive 
tract of fertile, unoccupied land lying between the terri- 
tories of the duke of \ork and lord Baltimore. At his 
solicitation, and in recompense for unrequitted services 
which his father had rendered the nation, this tract was, 
in 1681, granted to him in fuU property, and by the king 
called Pennsylvania. 

2. Desirous of selling his lands and founding a colony, 
he, in a public advertisement, described the country, and 
set forth the advantages which i't offered to emigrants. 
Many persons, chieiiy Quakers, were induced to purchase. 
The fee simple of the soil was sold at the rate of twenty 

f)ounds for every thousand acres ; and they who rented 
ands, agreed to pay one penny yearly per acre. Before the 
emigrants embarked, certain "conditions and concessions" 
were by them and the proprietor agreed upon and sub- 
scribed. 

3. In the fall, three ships, carrying settlers, sailed for 
Pennsylvania. The pious and philanthropic proprietor 
sent a letter to the Indians, informing tnem that "the 
great God had been pleased to make him concerned in 
their part of the world, and that the king of the country 
where he lived, had given him a great province tlierein, 



90 PENNSYLVANIA. 

but that he did not desire to enjoy it without their consent; 
that he was a man of peace ; and that the people whom he 
Bent were of the same disposition; and if any difference 
should happen between them, it mig-ht be adjusted by an 
equal number of men chosen on both sides." The position 
gelec:ed by these emigrants for a settlement was above 
the confluence of the Delaware and the Schuylkill. 

4. In April, 1682, Penn published a Frame of Govenu 
meni, the chief object of which was declared to be "to 
support power in reverence with the people, and to secure 
the people from the abuse of power." He published also 
a Body of Laws, which had been examined and approved 
by the emigrants in England ; and which, says an eminent 
historian, "does g-reat honor to iheir wisdom as statesmen, 
to their morals as men, and to their spirit as colonists." 
From the duke of York, he obtained the relinquishment 
of a tract of land, lying on the south side of the Delaware, 
a part of which was already set led, and in Augus^, ac- 
companied by about two thousand emigran s, set sail for 
America. 

5. He landed first at New Castle, which was a part of 
the "Territories," as the land conveyed to him by the 
duke was called. Upon this tract he found about three 
thousand Dutch, Swedes, and Finns. He proceeded to 
Chester, where he called an assembly on the fourth of 
December. This assembly annexed the Territories to 
the province, adopted the Frame of government, and 
enacted in form the Body of Laws. Penn also made a 
treaty with the Indians, from whom he purchased as much 
land as the circumstances of the colony required. He 
selected the site, and marked out the plan, of an extensive 
city, to which he gave the name of Philadelphia, or the 
city of love. Before the end of the year, it contained 
eighty houses and cottages. 

6. The settlement of none of the colonies commenced 
nnder such favorable auspices as that of Pennsylvania. 
The experience of half a century had disclosed the evils 
to be avoided, and pointed out the course to be pursued. 
The Indians, having been already taught to fear the power 
of the whites, were the more easily conciliated by their 
kindness. The soil being fertile, the climate temperate, 
and the game abundant, the first emigrants escaped most 
of the calamities which afflicted the more northern and 
Bouthern provinces. The increase of population exceeded, 
of course, all former example. 



PENNSYLVANIA. ©1 

7. In the new city, a second assembly was held in 
March, 1683. At the request of the freemen and deleofates, 
Penn granted them a second charier, which diminished the 
number of the council and assembly, and was, in other 
respects, different from the lirst, Some of the regulations, 
at that time adopted, bear the impress of the proprietor's 
singular genius, and benevolent disposition. 

8. It was ordained "that to prevent lawsuits, three 
arbitrators, to be called peace-makers, should be chosen 
by the county courts, to hear and determine small difier- 
ences between man and man: That childi-en should be 
taught some useful trade, to the end that none mig-ht be 
idle, that the poor might work to live, and the rich if they 
should become poor: That factors, wronging their employ- 
ers, should make satisfaction and one third over: Tliat 
everything, which excites the people to rudeness, cruelty, 
and irreligion, should be discouraged and severely punish'-d: 
That no one, acknowledging one God andhving peaceably 
in society, should be molested for his opinions or his 
practice, or compelled to frequent or maintain any ministry 
whatever." 

9. These judicious regulations attracted numerous 
emigrants; and to their salutary influence must be at- 
tributed the qualities of diligence, order, and economy, for 
which the Pennsylvanians are so justly celebrated. 
Within four years from the date of the grant to Penn, 
the province contained twenty settlements, and Philadel- 
phia two thousand inhabitants. 

10. In 1684, the proprietor returned to England. He 
left his province in profound tranquility, under the ad- 
ministration of live commissioners chosen from the 
council. The unfortunate James II. soon after ascended 
the throne. "As he has," said Penn, "been my friend, 
and my father's friend, I feel bound injustice to be a friend 
to him." He adhered to him while seated on the throne, 
and for two3''ears after he was expelled from his kingdom, 
the government of the province was administered in his 
name. 

11. By this display of attachment to the exiled monarch, 
he incurred the displeasure of king William. On vague 
suspicion, and unfounded charges, he was four times im- 

Erisoned. The government of his colony was taken from 
im, and given to colonel Fletcher, the governor of New 
York. But by the severest scrutiny, it was rendered 
apparent, that he had, in all his conduct, been actuated as 



92 PENNSYLVANIA. 

much by the love of his country as by personal gratitude. 
He regained the g-ood opinion of king William ; and, being 
permitted to resume and exercise his rights, appointed 
William Markham to be his deputy-governor. 

12. In 1699, he again visited Pennsylvania, and found 
the people discontented. They complained that his powers 
and their rights were not defined with sufficient precision, 
and demanded a new charter. In 1701, he prepared and 
presented one to the assembly, which was accepted. It 

fave to the assembly the right of originating bills, which, 
y the previous charters, was the right of the governor 
alone, and of amending or rejecting those which might be 
laid before them. To the governor it gave the right of 
rejecting bills passed by the assembly, of appointing his 
own council, and of exercising the whole executive power. 
The territories, now the state of Delaware, refusing to 
accept the new charter, separated from Pennsylvania, and 
were allowed a distinct assembly. The same governor, 
however, presided over both. 

13. Immediately after his third charter was accepted, 
Penn returned to England, and the executive authority 
was afterwards administered by deputy-governors appoint- 
ed by the proprietor. The people incessantly murmured 
and complained ; but the uninterrupted and unparalleled 
prosperity of the colony demonstrates, that b ut slight causes 
of compflaint existed. That which produced the greatest 
and most constant irritation was the refusal, by the deputy- 
governors, to assent to any law imposing taxes on the 
lands of the proprietors, although the sum raised was to 
be expended for the benefit of the whole province. This 
unwise, and indeed unjust, claim of exemption, occasioned 
greater disgust than injury, and embittered all the enjoy- 
ments of the inhabitants. 

14. But these dissensions did not in the least retard the 
prosperity of the colony. Nor did any other cause, having 
that tendency, exist. The upright conduct of Penn, in 
his intercourse with the Indians, was imitated by those 
who came after him; and for seventy years, uninterrupted 
harmony existed between them and the whites. In the 
early part of the revolutionary war, the people adopted a 
new constitution, by which the proprietor was excluded 
from all share in the government. He'was offered, and 
finally accepted, the sum of 570,000 dollars, in discharge 
of all quit-rents due from the inhabitants. 



93 

CHAPTER X. 

MARYLAND. 

During the reign of James I., the laws against Roman 
Catholics v/ere severe, and the popular hatred was invet- 
erate. Lord Baltimore, a distinguished member of that 
sect, resolved, in consequence, to remove from England 
to Virginia, believing that he might there enjoy his reli- 
gious opinions, without violating the laws or incurring re- 
proach. But the people among whom became to reside, 
were almost as intolerant as those he had left, and he 
soon found it necessary to seek some other asylum. 

2. Having ascertained that the territory on both sides 
of Chesapeake bay, was inhabited only by the natives, he 
conceived the project of planting there a colony for himself, 
and for all who might wish to retire from religious persecu- 
tion. He explored the country, returned to England, ob 
tained the assent of king Charles I. to a grant of territory 
but died before the requisite formalities were completed 

3. Cecil, his eldest son, and heir to his estate and title, 
obtained for himself the grant intended for his father. To 
the new colony the name of Maryland was given, in honor 
of Henrietta Maria, the royal consort of Charles. The 
land conveyed being within the boundaries of Virginia, the 
planters in that province remonstrated against the grant. 
The kin^ refusing to rescind it, lord Baltimore made 

Preparations to commence a settlement. He appointed 
is brother, Leonard Calvert, governor; who, near the 
close of the year 1633, sailed for America, accompanied 
by about two hundred emigrants, mostly Roman Catholics. 

4. They arrived in February, 1634, at the mouth of the 
river Potomac. At a conference with the Indians who 
dwelt on the shore, they purchased Yoamaco, a consider- 
able village, the site of which St. Mary's now occupies. 
By this measure, wise as well as just, the rightful propri- 
etors of the soil were satisfied, convenient habitations 
and some cultivated land Vv'ere obtained, and the first set- 
tlers were of course exempted from the miseries of fam- 
ine, and from the diseases which it produces. 

5. Other circumstances favored the rapid population of 
the colony. The charter grari-tedmore ample privileges 
than had ever been conceded to a subject ; the country 
was inviting ; the natives wero friendly ; from the south 



94 MARYLAND. 

churchmen drove puritans, from thp north puritans drove 
churchmen, into her borders, where all were freely re- 
ceived, protected, and cherished. 

6. The charter granted to the inhabitants the privilege 
of passing laws either by themselves or representatives, 
without reserving to the crown, as had been done in all 
previous charters, the right to reject the laws so passed. 
At lirst, when the freemen were few in number, each 
attended in person, or authorized some other freeman, who 
chose to attend, to vote and act in his stead. The increase 
of population soon rendered it necessary to adopt a differ- 
ent mode of legislation. In 1639, an act was passed, 
constituting a " house of assembly," to be composed of 
such as should be chosen by the people, of such as should 
be summoned or appointed by the proprietor, and of the 
governor and secretary. These were to sit together, and 
the laws which they should enact were to possess the 
same validity, as though the proprietors and all the peo- 
ple had concurred in enacting them. 

7. In 1650, a second alteration was made. The legis- 
lative body was divided into two branches, the delegates 
chosen by the people constituting the lower house, and 
the persons summoned by the proprietors, the upper house. 
It ought to be stated, for the honor of lord Baltimore and 
his associates, that, while the Catholics retained the 
ascendency in the province, the assembly passed no law 
abridging the liberty of conscience. 

8. But this colony, as well as all the others, in the early 
period of their existence, was afflicted with intestine 
troubles. They were principally caused by one William 
Clayborne. While a member of the Virginia council he 
had obtained a hcense from the king, to traffic in those 
parts of America where no other person enjoyed the exclu- 
sive right of trade. Under this hcense, he had made a 
small settlement on the island of Kent, and, when the 
grant was made to lord Baltimore, refused to submit to his 
authority. Be persuaded the natives that the "new 
comers" were Spaniards, and enemies to the Virginians. 
An Indian war was the consequence, which continued 
several years, and was productive of considerable distress. 

9. Clayborne was indicted and convicted of murder, 
piracy, and sedition ; and fleeing from justice, his estate 
was confiscated. He applied to the king for redress, but 
after a full hearing, was dismissed without obtaining any 
order in his favor. When the civil war, between the king 



MARYLAND. 95 

and parliament, began, he embraced the cause of the lat- 
ter, returned to Maryland, and by his intrigues, fomented, 
in 1645, a rebellion against its rulers, who were attached 
to the royal cause. Calvert, the governor, was compelled 
to fly to Virginia, and the insurgents seized the reins of 
government. The next year, however, the revolt was 
suppressed and tranquility restored. 

10. But after the parliament had triumphed over the 
king, they appointed commissioners for " reducing and 
governing the colonies within the bay of Chesapeake." 
Among these was Clayborne, the evil genius of Maryland. 
The proprietor, consenting to acknowledge the authority 
of parliament, was permitted to retain his station, but was 
unable to preserve tranquility. The distractions of Eng- 
land, finding their way into the colony, occasioned a civil 
war, which ended in the discomfiture of the governor and 
Roman Catholics. 

11. The next assembly, which was entirely under the 
influence of the victorious part}'', ordained that persons 
professing the Catholic religion should not be considered 
within the protection of the laws. Thus were they 
ungratefully persecuted by men whom they had taken to 
their bosom, and in a colony which they had founded. 
Laws unfavorable to the Quakers were also enacted, 
and here, as in England, the upper house was voted to 
be useless. At the restoration, in 1660, Philip Calvert 
was appointed governor, and the ancient order of things 
restored. The colony then contained about twelve thou- 
sand inhabitants. 

12. In 1676, died Cecil, lord Baltimore, the father of 
the province. For more than forty years, he had directed 
its affairs as proprietor, and displayed, in all his conduct, 
a benevolent heart and enlightened understanding. Al- 
though he lived in an a^e of bigotry, he was liberal in his 
opinions ; and for all his exertions to contribute to the 
happiness of his fellow beings, he desired no reward but 
their gratitude. This reward he received. The records 
of the Maryland assembly contain frequent memorials of 
the respect and affection of the people. He was succeed- 
ed, as proprietor, by his eldest son, Charles, who had, for 
several years, been governor of the colony, and displayed 
the same amiable qualities which had rendered his father 
respected and beloved. 

13. In the year 1689, the epoch of the revolution in 
England, the repose of Maryland was again disturbed. A 



96 NORTH CAROLINA- 

rumor was artfully circulated, that the Catholics had 
leagued with the Indians to destroy all the Protestants in 
the"province. An armed association was immediately 
formed, for the defence of the Protestant religion, and for 
asserting the rights of kin^ William and queen Mary. 
The magistrates attemptecTto oppose by force this asso- 
ciation ; but, meeting with few supporters, were com- 
pelled to abdicate the government. 

14. King VVilUam directed those who had assumed the 
supreme authority to exercise it in his name ; and for 
twenty-seven years the crown retained the entire control 
of the province. In 1716, the proprietor was restored to 
his right's ; and he and his descendants continued to enjoy 
them until the commencement of the revolution. 1 he 
people then assumed the government, adopted a constitu- 
tion, and refused to admit the claims of lord Baltimore to 
jurisdiction or property. 



CHAPTER XL 

NORTH CAROLINA. 

In 1630, Charles I. granted to sir Robert Heath all the 
territory between the 30th and 36th degrees of north 
latitude, and extending from the Atlantic ocean to the 
South sea, by the name of CaroHna. Under this grant no 
settlement was made. Between 16*40 and 1650, persons 
suffering from religious intolerance in Virginia,fled beyond 
her limits, and, without license from any source, occupied 
that portion of North Carolina, north of Albemarle sound. 
They found the winters mild and the soil fertile. As their 
cattle and swine procured their own support in the woods 
and multiplied fast, they were enabled, with little labor, 
to live in the enjoyment of abundance. Tlieir number 
was annually augmented; they acknowledged no superior 
upon earth, and ooeyed no laws but those of God and nature. 

2. In 1661, another settlement was made, near the 
mouth of Clarendon river, by adventurers from Massachu- 
setts. The land being sterile and the Indians hostile, they, 
in 1663, abandoned it. Immediately afterwards, theii 
place was supplied by emigrants from Barbadoes, who in- 
vested sir John Yeomaiis with the authority of governor. 

3. Sir Robert Heath having neglected to comply with 



NORTH CAROLINA. 97 

the conditions of his patent, the king, in 1663, granted 
the same territory to lord Clarendon and seven others, 
and invested them with ample powers of government over 
those who should inhabit it. To encourage emigration, 
they gave public assurances, that all who might remove to 
their territory, should enjoy unrestricted religious liber- 
ty, and be governed by a free assembly. The settlers on 
Albemarle sound were, on certain conditions, allowed to" 
retain their lands. A government over them was organ- 
ized, at the head of which a Mr. Drummond was placed. 
With the regulations imposed, they were dissatisfied, and 
revolted ; but their grievances were redressed, and, in 
16G8, they returned to their duty. 

4. At the request of the proprietors, the celebrated 
John Locke, whose political writings were then much 
read and admired, prepared for the colony a constitution 
of government. It provided that a chief officer, to be 
called the palatine, and to hold his office during life, should 
be elected from among the proprietors ; that a hereditary 
nobility, to be called landgraves and caziques, should be 
created ; and that, once in two years, representatives 
should be chosen by the freeholders. All these, with the 
proprietors or their deputies, were to meet in one assem- 
bly, which was to be called the parliament, and over which 
the palatine was to preside. The parliament could de- 
liberate and decide only upon such propositions as should 
be laid before it by a grand council composed of the 
palatine, nobilitY, and deputies of the propietors. 

5. This constitution, however wise it might seem to 
Encrlish politicians, was not adapted to the sentiments 
and habits of the people for whom it was prepared. Its 
aristocratic features displeased them. The measures 
adopted to introduce and enforce it, produced, in connec- 
tion with other causes, an insurrection, in the progress of 
which the palatine and the deputies were seized and 
imprisoned. Application was made to Virginia for as- 
sistance in restoring order ; but the fear of punishment 
induced the insurgents to submit, before an armed force 
could be arrayed against them. 

6. In January, 1670, William Sayle, under the direc- 
tion of the proprietors, left England, accompanied by a 
considerable body of emigrants, for Carolina ; and, after 
visiting Port Royal, made a settlement on Ashley river, 
within the present limits of South Carolina, where he 
laid out a town, which, in honor of the king then reigning, 



/ 

98 NORTH CAROLINA. 

he called Charleston. Dyinff soon after, sir John Yeo- 
mans, who had for several years, been governor at 
Clarendon, was appointed to succeed him. This new 
settlement attracted at hrst many inhabitants from that at 
Clarendon, and at length entirely exhausted it. Being 
remote from Albemarle, the proprietors established a 
separate government over it, and hence arose the dis- 
'tinctive appellations of North and South Carolina. 

7. The prosperity of the northern colony was retarded 
by domestic dissensions. To allay them, Seth Sothel, 
one of the proprietors, was appointed chief magistrate. 
His conduct, far from restoring quiet and contentment, 
increased the disorders which had before prevailed. He 
is represented as the most corrupt and rapacious of 
colonial governors. He plundered the innocent and re- 
ceived bribes from felons. For six years, the inhabitants 
endured his injustice and oppression. They then seized 
him, with a view of sending him to England for trial At 
his request, he was detained and tried by the assembly, 
who banished him from the colony. 

8. His successor was Philip Ludwell, of Virginia, and 
to him succeeded John Archdale, who was a Quaker and 
one of the proprietors. Both were popular governors ; 
under their administration, the colony prospered and the 
people were happy. In 1693, at the request of the Caro- 
linians, the constitution of Locke was abrogated by the 
proprietors, and each colony was afterwards ruled by a 
governor, council, and house of representatives. 

9. In 1707, a company of French Protestants arrived 
and seated themselves on the river Trent, a branch of the 
Neuse ; in 1710, a large number of Palatines, fleeing from 
religious persecution in Germany, sought refuge m the 
same part of the province. To each of these, the pro- 
prietors granted one hundred acres of land. They hved 
happy, for a fe\y years, in the enjoyment of hberty of 
conscience, and in the prospect of competence and ease. 

10. But suddenly a terrilsle calamity fell upon them. 
The Tuscarora audi Coree Indians, smarting under recent 
injuries, and dreading total extinction from the encroach- 
ment of these strangers, plotted, with characteristic 
secrecy, their entire destruction. Sending their families 
to one of their fortified towns, twelve hundred bowmen 
sallied forth, and in the same night, attacked, in separate 
parties, the nearest settlements of the Palatines. Men, 
women, and children were indiscriminately butchered. 



NORTH CAROLINA. 99 

The savages, with the swiftness and ferocil^ of wolves, 
ran from village to village. Before them, was the repose 
oif innocence ; behind, the sleep of death. A few escaping, 
alarmed the settlements more remote, and hastened to 
South Carolina for assistance. 

11. Governor Craven immediately despatched, to the 
aid of the sister colony, nearly a thousand men, under the 
command of colonel Barnwell. After a fatiguing march 
through a hideous wilderness, they met the enemy, at- 
tacked, defeated, and pursued them to their fortified 
town, which was immediately besieged. In a few days, 
peace, at their solicitation, was concluded, and colonel 
JBarnwell returned to South Carolina. 

12. The peace was short, and upon the recommence- 
ment of hostilities, assistance was again solicited from the 
southern colony. Colonel James Moore, an active young 
officer, was immediately despatched, with forty white 
men and ei^ht hundred friendly Indians. He found the 
enemy in a fort near Cotechny river. After a siege, which 
continued more than a week, the fort was taken and 
eight hundred Indians made prisoners. The Tuscaroras, 
disheartened by this defeat, migrated, in 1713, to the north, . 
and joined the celebrated confederacy, denominated the 
Five Nations. The others sued for peace, and after- 
wards continued friendly. 

13. Until 1729, the two Carolinas, though distinct for 
many purposes, remained under the superintendence and 
control of the same'proprietors. Neither had been pros- 
perous ; and the interests of the governors and governed 
being apparently adverse to each other, the latter became 
discontented and refractory. They complained to the 
king, who directed inquiry to be made in his courts. The 
charter which he had granted was declared forfeited, 
and over each colony, royal governments, entirely uncon- 
nected with each other, were established. 

14. Soon after this event, the soil in the interior of 
North Carolina was found to be superior in fertility to 
that on the sea-coast. The settlements, consequently, 
advanced rapidly into the wilderness. From the northern 
colonies, particularly Pennsylvania, multitudes were al- 
lured to this region by the mildness of the climate, and by 
the facility of obtaining in abundance all the necessaries 
of life. At peace with the Indians, and fortunate in her 
governors, the colony continued to prosper until the com- 
mencement of the troubles which preceded the revolution. 



100 

CHAPTER XIL 
SOUTH CAROLINA. 

This colony, and that of North Caro'lina, were, as has al 
ready been stated, included in the sam e charter. In 1670, 
governor Sayle, after visiting Port- Royal, made, on a 
neck of land between Ashley and Cooper rivers, the first 
permanent settlement within its limits, and gave to it the 
name of Charlestown. Soon after, all the freemen, meet- 
ing at this place, elected representatives to sit in the 
colonial parhament. 

2. Several circumstances contributedto promote the 
settlement of this colony. The conquest of New York in- 
duced many of the Dutch to resort to it. From England, 
puritans came to avoid the profanity and hcentiousness 
which disgraced the court of Charles II. ; and cavaliers to 
retrieve their fortunes, exhausted by the civil wars. The 
arbitrary measures of Louis XIV. drove many French 
Protestants into exile, some of whom crossed the Atlantic 
and settled in Carolina. Many of these exiles were 
rich ; aU were industrious, and by their exemplary de- 
meanor gained the good will of the proprietors. 

3. The situation of Charleston being found inconve- 
nient, the inhabitants, in 1680, removed to Oyster Point, 
where a new city was laid out, to which the name of the 
other was given. In the same year, commenced a war with 
the Westoes, a powerful tribe of Indians, which threaten- 
ed great injury to the colony. Peace, however, was soon 
restored. In 1690, Seth Sothel, one of the proprietors, 
having, for corrupt conduct, been driven from North 
Carohna, appeared suddenly at Charleston, and, aided 
by a powerful faction, assumed the reins of government. 
Two years afterwards he was removed from office. 

4. The proprietors having observed the good conduct 
of the French Protestants,directed the governor to permit 
them to elect representatives, a privilege which they had 
never yet exercised. The English Episcopalians, unwill- 
ing that any of their hereditary enemies, who did not be- 
long to their church, should be associated with themselves 
in the enjoyment of the rights of freemen, were exasper- 
ated, and opposed the concession with great clamor and 
zeal. They even went further. Warmed by opposition, 
they proposed to enforce, with respect to them, the laws 



SOUTH CAROLINA. 101 

of England against foreigners, insisting that they could 
not legally possess real estate in the colony. They also 
declaredthattheirmarriages, being solemnized by French 
ministers, were void, ana that the children could not in- 
herit the property of their fathers. By the display of a 
spirit so illiberal and unchristian, these strangers were 
alarmed and discouraged. They knew not for whom they 
labored. But, countenanced by the governor, they re- 
mained in the colony, and for the present, withdrew their 
claim to the right of suffrage. 

5. Yet the ferment did not subside on the removal of 
the cause which produced it. Such was the general 
turbulence and disorder, the people complaining of their 
rulers and quarrelling among themselves, that, in 1695, 
John Archdale was sent over, as governor of both Caro- 
linas, and invested with full power to redress all griev- 
ances. He succeeded in restoring order, but found the 
antipathy against the unfortunate exiles too great to be 
encountered, with any hope of success, until softened by 
time and their amiable deportment. These produced the 
effects which he anticipated. In a few years, the French 
Protestants were admitted, by the general assembly, to 
all the rights of citizens and freemen. 

6. Although the proprietors, by the regulations which 
were in force before the constitution of Locke was adopted, 
and which were restored upon its abrogation, had stipu- 
lated, that liberty of conscience should be universally 
enjoyed, yet one of them, lord Granville, a bigoted 
churchman, and James Moore, the governor, resolved to 
effect, if possible, the establishment, in the colony, of 
the Episcopal religion. They knew that a majority of 
the people were dissenters, and that by art, and mtrigue 
only could their design be accomplished. The governor, 
v^^ho was avaricious and venal, became the toofof Gran- 
ville. He interfered in the elections, and, by bribing the 
voters, succeeded in procuring a majority in the assem- 
bly who would be subservient to his wishes. 

7. A law was passed, establishing the Episcopal religion, 
and excluding dissenters from a seat in the assembly. It 
was laid before the proprietors, without whose sanction it 
could not possess permanent validity. Archdale, who had 
returned to England, opposed it with ability and spirit. 
He insisted that good faith, policy, interest, even piety, 
concurred to dictate its rejection. But lord Granville de- 
clared himself in favor of it, and it received conlirmation. 



102 SOUTH CAROWNA. 

8. The dissenters saw themselves at once deprived of 
those privileges for which they had abandoned their na- 
tive country, and encountered thedangers and hardships 
of the ocean and a wilderness. Some prepared to leave 
the colony and settle in Pennsylvania. Others proposed 
that a remonstrance agjainst the law should tirst be pre- 
sented to the house of lords, and this measure was 
adopted. The lords expressed by a vote, their disappro- 
bation of the law, and upon their solicitation queen Anne 
declared it void. Soon after, lord Granville died, and the 
colony, controlled by more liberal councils, again enjoyed 
the blessings of domestic quiet. 

9. In 1702, war then existing between England and 
Spain, governor Moore, thirsting for Spanish plunder, led 
jan expedition against St. Augustme. It was badly planned, 
worse execute(r,and failed. Returning from defeat abroad, 
he met, at home, the reproaches of his people. To silence 
these, he marched, at the head of a body of troops,against 
the Apalachian Indians, who had become insolent and 
hostile. In this expedition he was successful, taking ma- 
ny prisoners, and laying their towns in ashes. By his 
Victories oVer the savages, he retrieved his character ; 
and, by selling the prisoners as slaves, obtained, what he 
most coveted, considerable personal emolument. 

10. In 1706, the Spaniards, from Florida, invaded Car- 
olina.. ■ The governor, Nathaniel Johnson, having re- 
ceived intimation of their approach, erected fortifications 
and made arragements to obtain, on short warning, the 
assistance of the militia. When the enemy's fleet ap- 
peared before Charleston, the whole strength of the col- 
oly was summoned to defend it. A force so formidable 
ensured its safety. After burning a few detached build- 
ings, the enemy retired without inflicting other injury. 
One of their ships, having ninety men on board, was 
captured by the Carolinians. 

11. In 1715, after several yearsof profound peace, an 
Indian war broke out. All the tribes, from Florida to cape 
Fear, had been long engaged in a conspiracv to extirpate 
the whites. In the morning of the 15th of April, the first 
blow was struck. At Pocataligo, and the settlements 
around Port Royal, ninety persons were massacred. The 
inhabitants of the latter place escaped, by embarking 
precipitately on board a vessel, which was then in the 
harbor, and sailing directly to Charleston. 

12. This massacre was perpetrated by the southern 



SOUTH CAROLINA. 103 

Indians. The northern, at the same time, attacked the 
settlements near them. Many of the inhabitants were 
killed, and many fled to Charleston. At a plantation on 
Goose creek, seventy whites and forty faithful negroes, 
beinc^ protected by a breast-work, determined to maintain 
their post. On the tirst attack, their courage failed, and 
they agreed to surrender. The instant they were in the 
power of the enemy, all were barbarously murdered. 

13. Governor Craven, at the head of twelve hundred 
men, marched against the savages. He discovered in 
the wilderness several small parties, who fled before him. 
At Saltcatchers, he found them all assembled, and there 
an obstinate and bloody battle was fought. The whites 
were victorious, driving the enemy before them, andcom- 
pelHng them to leave the province. Most of them fled to 
Florida, where they were received, in the most friendly 
manner, by the Spaniards. 

14. In this short war, four hundred whites were killed, 
property of great value destroyed, and a large debt con- 
tracted. Tlie proprietors, though earnestly solicited, re- 
fused to afford any relief, or to pay any portion of the 
debt. The assembly determined to remunerate the col- 
ony, by disposing of the land from which the Indians had 
been driven. The terms offered were so favorable, that 
five hundred Irishmen immediately came over, and plant- 
ed themselves on the frontiers. 

15. The proprietors, refusing to sanction the proceed- 
ings of the assembly, deprived these emigrants of their 
lands. Some, reduced to extreme poverty, perished from 
want ; others resorted to the northern colonies. A strong 
barrier between the old settlements and the savages, was 
thus removed, and the country again exposed to their 
incursions. The people were exasperated, and longed 
for a change of masters. 

16. The corrupt and oppressive conduct of Trott, the 
chief-justice, and Rhett, the receiver-general, increased 
the discontent. Of the former, the governor aad council 
complained to the proprietors, and solicited his recall. 
Instead of removing him, they thanked him for his 
services, and removed the governor and council. With 
the governor next appointed, though a man generally 
beloved, the assembly refused to have any concern or 
intercourse. They drew up articles of impeachment 
against Trott, accusing him of corruption and gross mis- 

k 



104 SOUTH CAROLINA. 

conduct, and sent an agent to England, to maintain their 
accusation before the proprietors. He was, neverthe- 
less, continued in office. 

17. The patience of the people was exhausted, and 
they waitea only for a favorable opportunity to throw oft 
their oppressive yoke. In 1719, at a general review of 
the militia at Charleston, occasioned by a threatened inva- 
sion of the colony, from Florida, the officers and soldiers 
bound themselves, by a solemn compact, to support e^ch 
other in resisting the tyranny of the proprietors ; and the 
assembly, which was then in session, requested the 
governor, by a respectful address, to consent to adminis- 
ter the government in the name of the king. 

18. He refused, and by proclamation, dissolved the as- 
sembly. The members immediately met as a convention, 
and elected colonel James Moore their governor. He was 
a bold man, and exceedingly well qualified for a popular 
leader, in a turbulent reason. He accepted the appoint- 
ment, and, assisted by the convention, and supported by 
the people, administered the affairs of the colony. 

19. The conduct of the proprietors and people was 
brought before his majesty in council. After a fuU hear- 
ing, it was decided, that both colonies should be taken 
under the protection of the crown. Several years after- 
wards, seven of the proprietors sold to the king their claim 
to the soil and rents, and all assigned to him their right 
of jurisdiction. The government was subsequently ad- 
ministered by executive officers, appointed by the crown, 
and by assemblies, chosen by the people, and under their 
control the colony prospered. 

20. In 1738, occurred an alarming insurrection of the 
negroes. A number of them, assembled at Stono, sur- 

Erised and killed two men who had charge of a ware- 
ouse, from which they took guns and ammunition. They 
then chose a captain, and, with drums beating and colors 
flying, marched southwestward. They burned every 
house on their way, killed all the whites they could find, 
and compelled other negroes to join them. 

21. Governor Bull, wno was returning to Charleston, 
from the southward, accidentally met them, hastened out 
of their way, and spread an alarm. The news soon reached 
Wiltown, where, fortunately, a large congregation were 
attending divine service. The men, having, according to 
a law of the province, brought their arms to the place 



GEORGIA. 105 

of worship, marched instantly in quest of the negroes, 
who, by this time, had become formidable, and spread 
terror and dessolation around them. 

22. While, in an open field, they were carousing and 
dancing, with frantic exultation at their late success, 
they were suddenly attacked by the whites. Some were 
killed, the remainder fled. Most of the fugitives were 
taken and tried. They who had been compelled to join 
the conspirators, were pardoned ; but all the leaders and 
first, insurgents suffered death. About twenty whites 
were murdered. 

23. From this period until the era of the revolution, no 
important event occurred in the colony. It was sometimes 
distressed by Indian wars ; but the number of inhabitants, 
and the means of subsistence and comfort, were constant- 
ly increasing. Emigrants came principally from the 
northern colonies ; but often large bodies of protestants 
arrived from Europe ; in one year, 1752, the number who 
came exceeded sixteen hundred. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

GEORGIA. 

Upon the southern part of the territory included in the 
Carolina charter, no settlement was made, until several 
years after that charter was forfeited. In June, 1732, 
several benevolent gentlemen, in England, concerted a 
project for planting a colony in that unoccupied region. 
Their principal object was to relieve, by transporting 
thither the indigent subjects of Great Britain ; but their 
plan of benevolence embraced also the persecuted pro- 
testants of all nations. 

2. To a project springing from motives so noble and 
disinterested, tlie people and the government extended 
their encouragement and patronage. A patent was grant- 
ed by the king, conveying to the tru stees apart of the ter- 
ritory now constituting the state of Georgia, which was 
to be apportioned gratuitously among the settlers ; and 
liberal donations were made by the charitable, to defray 
the expense of transporting them across the Atlantic, and 
of providing for their support the first season. 

3. The concerns of the colony were managed by the 



103 GEORGIA. 

trustees, who freely devoted much of their time to the 
undertaking. Among other regulations, they provided, 
that the lands should not be sold nor devised by the own- 
ers, but should descend to the male children only ; they 
forbade the use of rum in the colony, and strictly prohib- 
ited the importation of negroes. But none of these regu- 
lations remained long in force. 

4. jn November, 1732, one hundred and thirteen emi- 
grants embarked for Georgia, at the head of whom the 
trustees had placed James Oglethorpe, a zealous and ac- 
tive promoter of this scheme of benevolence. In Janu- 
ary, they arrived at Charleston ; and the Carolinians, 
sensible of the advantage of having a barrier between 
them and the Indians, gave the adventurers a cordial 
welcome. They supplied them with provisions, and with 
boats to convey them to the place of their destination. 
Yamacraw bluff, since called Savannah, was selected as 
the most eligible place for a settlement. 

5. The next year, five or six hundred poor persons ar- 
rived, and to each a portion of the wilderness was as- 
signed. But it was soon found that these emigrants, 
who were the refuse of cities, had been rendered poor by 
idleness, and irresolute by poverty, were not fitted to fell 
the mighty groves of Georgia. A race more hardy and 
enterprising was necessary. The trustees, therefore, of- 
fered to receive, also, such as had not, by persecution or 
poverty, been rendered objects of compassion, and to 
grant to all, who should settle in the colony, fifty acres 
of land. In consequence of this offer, more than four 
hundred persons, from Germany, Scotland, and Switzer- 
land, arrived in the year 1735. The Germans settled at 
Ebenezer, the Scotch at New Inverness, now Darien. 

6. In 1736, John Wesley, a celebrated methodist, made 
a visit to Georgia, for the purpose of preaching to the 
colonists, and converting the Indians. He was then 
young and ardent ; the pjeople around him felt less ardor 
than himself, and his pious zeal soon brought Jiim into 
collision with some of the principal settlers. He was ac- 
cused of diverting the people from their labor to attend 
his religious meetings, and of exercising unwarranted 
ecclesiastical authority. Persecuted by his enemies, and 
finding he could render no further service to the cause 
of religion in the colony, he returned to England, and 
there, for many years, pursued a distinguished career of 
piety and usefulness. 

7. Two years afterwards, George Whitfield, another 



GEORGIA. 107 

and more celebrated Methodist, arrived in the colony. 
He had already made himself conspicuous in England, by 
iiis numerous eccentricities, his ardent piety, his extraor- 
dinary eloquence, his zeal and activity in propagating his 
opmions. He came to Georgia for the benevolent purpose 
of estabhshing an orphan house, where poor children 
might be fed, clothed, and educated in the knowledge of 
Christianity. In prosecution of this purpose, he often 
crossed the Atlantic, and traversed Great Britain and 
America, soliciting aid from the pious and charitable. 
Wherever he went, he preached, with sincerity and fer- 
vor, his peculiar doctrines, making proselytes of most 
who heard him, and founding a sect which has since be- 
come numerous and respectable. His orphan houee, 
during his life, did not flourish, and after his death, was 
entirely abandoned. 

8. In 1740, the trustees rendered an account of their 
administration. At that time, two thousand four hundred 
and ninety-eight emigrants had arrived in the' colony. Of 
these, fifteen hundred and twenty-one were indigent Eng- 
Ushmen, or persecuted Protestants. The benefactions, 
from government and from individuals, had -been nearly 
half a million of dollars ; and it was computed that, for 
every person transported and maintained by the trustees, 
more than three hundred dollars had been expended. 

9. The hope which the trustees had cherished, that the 
colony, planted at such vast expense, would be prosperous, 
and the objects of their benevolence happy, wei'e com- 
pletely disappointed. Such was the character of the 
greater part of the settlers, and such the restrictions 
imposed, that the plantations languished ,and continued 
to require the contributions of the charitable. 

10. War having been declared against Spain, Mj*. Ogle- 
thorpe was promoted to the rank of general in the British 
army, and at the head of two thousand men, partly from 
Virginia and the Carolinas, undertook an expedition 
against Florida. He took two Spanish forts and besieged 
St. Augustine ; but encountering an obstinate resistance, 
was compelled to return unsuccessful to Georgia. 

11. Two years afterwards, the Spaniards, in retaliation, 
prepared to invade Georgia; andthey intended, if success- 
lul there, to subjugate the Carolinas and Virginia. Onre- 
ceiving information of iheir approach, general Oglethorpe 
solicited assistance from South Carolina. But the inhabi- 
tants of that colony, entertaining a strong prejudice against 
him, in consequence of his late defeat, and terrified by the 



108 GEORGIA. 

danger which threatened themselves, determined to pro- 
vide only for their own safety. 

12. Meanwhile general Oglethorpe made preparations 
for a vigorous defence. He assembled seven hundred 
men exclusive of a body of Indians, fixed his head quar- 
ters at Fredrica, on the island of St. Simon, and, with this 
small band, determined to encounter whatever force 
might be brought against him. It was his utmost hope 
that he might be able to resist the enemy until a rein- 
forcement should arrive from Carolina, which he daily 
and anxiously expected. 

13. On the last of June, the Spanish fleet, consisting of 
thirty-two sail, and having on board more than three 
thousand men, came to anchor off St. Simon's bar. Not- 
withstanding all the resistance which general Oglethorpe 
could oppose, they sailed up the river Altamaha, landed 
upon the island, and there erected fortifications. 

14. General Oglethorpe, convinced that his small force, 
if divided, must be entirely inefficient, assembled the 
whole of it at Fredrica. One portion he employed in 
strenthening his fortifications ; the Highlanders and 
Indians, ranging night and day through the woods, often 
attacked the out-posts of the enemy. The toil of the 
troops was incessant ; and the long delay of the expected 
succors, so cruelly withheld by South Carolina, caused 
the most gloomy and depressing apprehensions. 

15. Learning that the Spanish army occupied two dis- 
tinct positions, Ogletliorpe conceived the project of at- 
tacking one by surprise. He selected the bravest of his 
little army, and in the night marched, entirely unobserved, 
to within two miles of the camp which he intended to assail. 
Directing his troops to halt, he advanced, at the head of a 
small body, to reconnoitre the enemy. While thus em- 
ployed, a French soldier of his party, firing his musket, 
deserted to the Spaniards. Discovery destroying all hope 
of success, the general immediately returned to Frederi- 
ca. He was not only chagrined at tliis occurrence, but 
apprehended instant danger from the disclosure which 
the deserter would doubtless make of his weakness. 

16. In this embarrasment, he devised an expedient 
which was attended with the most happy success. He 
wrote a letter to the deserter, instructing him to acquaint 
the Spaniards with the defenceless state of Frederica ; to 
urge them to attack the place, and if he could not succeed, 
to persuade them to remain three days longer on the island ; 



GEORGIA, 10» 

for within ihat time, accordiiTff to late advices from Caro- 
lina, he should receive a reinlorcement of two thousand 
men and six ships of war. Ha cautioned him against 
dropping any hint of the attack, meditated by admiral 
V^ernon, upon St. Augustine, and assured him that the 
reward for his services should be ample. 

17. For a small bribe, a soldier who had been made 
prisoner in one of the numerous skirmishes, engaged to 
deliver this letter to the deserter, and was then set at 
liberty. As was foreseen, he carried it directly to the 
Spanish general, who immediately suspected the deserter 
to be a spy from the English camp, and ordered him to 
be put in irons. But although his suspicions were awa- 
kened, he was yet uncertain whether the whole might 
not be a stratagem of his antagonist. 

18. While hesitating what to believe, three small ves- 
sels of war appeared off the coast. Supposing they 
brought the reinforcements alluded to in the letter to the 
deserter, he hesitated no longer, but determined to make 
a vigorous attack upon the English, before these rein- 
forcements could arrive and be brought into action. 

19. General Oglethorpe, by mere accident, obtained 
information of their design. A small party was instantly 

Elaced in ambuscade; the Spaniards advanced near them, 
alted to rest, and laid aside their arms. A sudden and 
well directed fire, kilUng many, threw the enemy into 
confusion. After a few more discharges, they fled to their 
fortifications, which they demolished, and, hastily em- 
barking, made every possible effort to escape from the 
reinforcements that were supposed to be approaching. 

20. Thus was Georgia, with trifling loss, delivered ^om 
the most imminent danger. General Oglethorpe not only 
retrieved, but exalted his reputation. From the Carolini- 
ans, grqatfulfor their preservation, and from the govern- 
ors of most of the northern colonies, he received cordial 
congratulations upon his address and good fortune. And 
so mortified were the Spaniards at the result of the expe- 
dition, that the commander, on his return, was arrested, 
tried, and cashiered for misconduct. 

21. But the prosperity of the colony was retarded by 
these disturbances. For ten years longer, it remained 
imder the management of the trustees, who,embarrassing 
it by too much regulation, discouraged the emigrants and 
checked its growth. At length, disappointed in their 
hopes, and wearied by complaints, they surrendered their 



110 FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. [1754. 

charter to the crown ; and, in 1754, a royal government 
was estabHshed over the colony. 

22. New regulations being adopted, Georgia began to 
flourish. Among her governors, James Wright deserves 
honorable notice for his wisdom in discernmg, and his 
zeal in pursuing, her true interests. The cultivation of 
rice and indigo was prosecuted with augmented industry, 
skill, and profit ; and in every succeeding year, an in- 
creased amount of these staple commodities was exported 
to the mother country. The Florida Indians were some- 
times troublesome, but were as often chastised and com- 
pelled to sue for peace. 



CHAPTER XIV. 
FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. 

The treaty of peace concluded in 1748, between Eng 
land and France, restored tranquility to America. At 
this period, the number of inhabitants in the thirteer> 
colonies was about one million one hundred thousand 
The English settlements had not advanced far into the 
wilderness, but extended along the ocean from New- 
foundland to Florida. Those of the French, at the north, 
reached from the mouth of the St. Lawrence to Montreal ; 
and they had built forts and trading houses on lake On- 
tario. At the south, they had planted New Orleans, and 
having discovered the river Mississippi, they claimed the 
fertile and delightful valley through which it runs, and 
the whole country watered by its tributary streams. 

2. They at length determined to connect their northern 
and southern settlements by a chain of posts qptending 
along the frontiers of the English, from lake Ontario to 
the Ohio, and down that river and the Mississippi to 
New Orleans. While they were intent on this project, 
a company of English traders, having obtained from the 
king a grant of land, established trading houses on the 
banks of the Ohio. 

y. The French seized some of these traders, and con- 
veyed them prisoners to Canada. The company complained 
to governor Dinwiddle, of Virginia. The land having been 
granted as a part of that colony, he determined to send a 
messenger to the commander of the French forces on cne 



1754.] FRENCH WAR OF 1754-63, 111 

Ohio, and require hini to withdraw his troops. For this 
mission be selected George Washington, who was then 
twentv-one years of age, and who afterwards became 
illustrious in the annals of his country, 

4. To the letter of Dinwiddie, the French commander 
replied, that he had taken possession of the country in 
pursuance of directions from his general, then in Canada, 
to whom he would transmit the letter, and whose orders 
he should implicitly obey. This reply not being satisfac- 
tory to the governor, preparations were made in Virginia, 
to maintain by force the rights of the British crown. 
Troops, constituting a regiment, were raised, the com- 
mand of whom, on the death of the colonel first appoint- 
ed, was given to Mr. Washington. 

5. At the head of about four hundred men, he advanced, 
early in the spring, into the territory in dispute. On his 
route, he met, attacked, and defeated, a French party 
under the command of one Dijoinville, who approached him 
in a manner indicating hostile intentions. He proceeded 
towards fort Du Quesne,* situated at the junction af the 
Alleghany and Monon^ahela. From this fort, De Villier, 
at the head of nine hundred men, marched out to attack him. 

6. Hearing of the approach of this party, colonel 
Washington halted, and hastily erected some imperfect 
works, by means of which he hoped to prolong his defence, 
until the arrival of reinforcements. He was closely be- 
sieged by De Villier, put making an obstinate defence, was 
offered the most honorable terms of capitulation, which 
he accepted, and returned with his regiment to Virginia. 

7. In this year, delegates from seven of the colonies 
met at Albany, for the purpose of holding a conference 
with the Six Nations of Indians. This business being 
finished, a confederation of the colonies was proposed by 
the delegates from Massachusetts. A" Plan of Union," 
was agreed upon, to be submitted to the colonial legisla- 
tures, and to parliament, for their adoption. 

8. This plan provided that delegates to a General 
Council should be chosen by the representatives of the 
people, in the colonial assemblies, and that a president- 
general should be appointed by the crown. This council 
was to possess the control of the military force of the 
confederacy, and the power to concert all measures for the 
common protection and safety. The president-general was 
to have a negative upon the proceedings of the delegates 

J • Pronounced Da Kane. 



112 FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. [1754. 

9. This plan was rejected by parliament, because the 
delegates were to be chosen by the representatives of the 
people. It was rejected by the colonies, because it placed 
too much power in the hands of the kin^. In England, 
apprehensions were already entertained of the growing 
importance of the colonial assemblies. In America, the 
people began, .perhaps unconsciously, to be actuated by 
the spirit of independence. 

10. The conduct of the French, on the Ohio, convinced 
the cabinet of London that their claim to the country, 
through which that river flows, must be relinquished, or 
maintained by the sword. They did not hesitate which 
alternative to choose. Early in the spring of 1755, they 
despatched general Braddockto America, with a respecta- 
ble force, to expel the French, and keep possession of the 
territory. And preparations having been made by France 
to despatch a reinforcement to her armies in Canada, 
admiral Boscawen was ordered to endeavor to intercept 
the French fleet before it should enter the gulf of St. 
Lawrence. 

11. In April, general Braddock met the governors of 
the several provinces, to confer upon the plan of the 
ensuing campaign. Three expeditions were resolved upon: 
one against Du Quesne, to be commanded by general 
Braddock ; one against forts Niagara and Frontinac, to be 
commanded by governor Shirley ; and one against Crown 
Point, to be commanded by general Johnson. The last 
mentioned post was the nearest to New England of any 
in the possession of the enemy; and from it almost all the 
Indian parties, which had, in the late wars, so cruelly 
harassed the northern colonies, were despatched and sup- 
ported. The expedition against it was proposed and urged 
by Massachusetts, and was to be executed by colonial 
troops, raised in New England and New York. 

12. While preparations were making for these expedi- 
tions, another, which had been previously concerted, was 
carried on against the French forces in Nova Scotia. 
This province was settled by the French, but was ceded 
to the English by the treaty of Utrecht. Its boundaries 
not having been defined, the French continued to occupy 
a portion of the territory claimed by the English, and had 
built forts for their defence. To gain possession of these 
was the object of the expedition. 

13. About two thousand militia, commanded by coloneJ 
Winslow, embarked at Boston; and being joined on their 



1755.] FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. 113 

passage by three hundred regulars, arrived, in June, at 
the place of destination. The forts were invested ; the 
resistance made v^^as trifling and ineffectual ; and in a short 
time the English gained entire possession of the province, 
according to their own definition of its boundaries. Three 
only of their men were killed. 

14. The preparations of general Braddock, in Virginia, 
had proceeded slowly. It had been found extremely dif- 
ficult to procure horses, wagons, and provisions. Impa- 
tient of delay, he determined to set out with twelve 
Hundred men,* selected from the different corps, and to 
proceed, as rapidly as possible, towards fort Du Q,uesne. 
The residue of the army, and the heavy baggage, were left 
under the command of colonel Dunbar, who was directed 
to follow as aoon as the preparations were completed. 

15- Braddock had been educated in the English army ; 
and in the science of war, as then taught in Europe, he 
deserved and enjoyed the reputation of more than ordinary 
skill. Of this reputation he was vain, and disdained to 
consider that his skill was totally inapplicable to the mode 
of warfare practised in the forests of America. Before he 
left England, he was repeatedly admonished to beware of 
a surprise ; and on his march through the wilderness, the 
provincial ol^cers frequently entreated him to scour the sur- 
rounding thickets. But he held these officers and the ene- 
my in too much contempt tolistento this salutary counsel. 

10. On approaching fortDu Quesne, colonel Washing- 
ton, who accompanied him as his aid, made a last attempt 
to induce him to change his order of march. He explained 
the Indian mode of warfare; represented his danger; and 
offered to take command of the provincials and place him- 
self in advance of the army. This offer was declined. 
The general proceeded, confident of the propriety of his 
conduct; the provincials followed, trembling for the con- 
sequences. 

17. On the ninth of July, the army crossed the Monon- 

{rahela, within a few miles of Du Quesne. Their route 
ed through a defile, which they had nearly passed, when 
a tremendous yell and instantaneous discharge of fire arms 
suddenly burst upon them from an invisible foe. The van 
was thrown into confusion. The general led the main 
body to its support. For a moment, order was restored, 
and a short cessation of the enemy's fire, occasioned by 
the death of their commander, seemed to indicate that all 
danger was over. 



114 FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63 [1755. 

18. But the attack was soon renewed with increased 
fury. Concealed behind trees, logs, and rocks, the Indians 
poured upon the troops a deadly and incessant fire. Officers 
and men fell thickly around, and the survivors knew not 
where to direct ll.eir aim to revenge their slaughtered 
comrades. The whole body was again thrown into con- 
fusion. The general, obstinate and courageous, refused 
to retreat, but bent his whole efforts to restore and main- 
tain order. He persisted in these efforts, until five horses 
had been shot under him, and every one of his officers on 
horseback, except colonel Washington, was either killed 
or wounded. 

19. The general at length fell, and the rout became 
universal. The troops fled precipitately until they met 
the division under Dunbar, then sixty miles in the rear. 
To this body the same panic was communicated. Turn- 
ing about, they fled with the rest, and although no enemy 
had been seen during the engagement, nor afterwards, yet 
the army continued retreating until it reached fort Cum- 
berland, one hundred and twenty miles from the place of 
action. There they remained but a short time. With 
the remnant of the army, amounting to fifteen hundred 
men, colonel Dunbar, upon whom, on the death of Brad- 
dock, the command devolved, marched to Philadelphia, 
leaving the frontiers of Pennsylvania and Virginia desti- 
tute of defence. 

20. The provincial troops, whom Braddock had so much 
despised, displayed, during the battle, the utmost calmness 
and courage. Though placed in the rear, they alone, led 
on by Washington, advanced against the Indians and 
covered the retreat. Had they been permitted to fight in 
their own way, they could easily have defeated the enemy. 
In this battle, sixty-four, out of eighty-five officers, were 
either killed or wounded, and at least one half of the 
privates. 

21. The two northern expeditions, though not so disas- 
trous, were both unsuccessful. General Shirley, who had 
been appointed to command that against Niagara, met with 
so mady delays that he did not reach Oswego until late in 
August. While embarking there to proceed against 
Niagara, the autumnal rains began, his troops became 
discouraged, his Indian allies deserted him, and he was 
compelled to relinquish his design. 

22. The forces destined to attack Crown Point, and the 
requisite military stores, could not be collected at Albany 



1755] FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. 115 

until tlie last of August Thence the army, under the 
command of general Johnson, proceeded to the south end 
of lake George, on their way to the place of destination 
There he learned, that the armament, fitted out in the 
ports of France, eluding the English squadron, had arrived 
at Quebec, and that baron Dieskau, commander of the 
French forces, was advancing with an army towards the 
territories of the English. He halted, erected slight breast- 
works, and detached colonel Williams with a thousand 
men, to impede the progress of the enemy. 

23. Dieskau, who was near, was immediately informed 
of the approach of this detachment Without losing a 
moment, he directed his troops to conceal themselves. 
The English advanced into the midst of their enemy, and, 
from every quarter, received, at the same moment, a sud- 
den and unexpected fire. Their leader fell, and the men 
fled, in disorder, to the camp. 

24. They were followed closely by the enemy, who 
approached within one hundred and fifty yards of the 
breastwork ; and, had they made an immediate assault, 
Would probably, such was the panic of the English, have 
been successful, Buther^ they halted, to make disposi- 
tions for a regular attack. The Indians and Canadians 
were despatched to the flanks, and the regular troops 
began the attack with firing, by platoons, at the centre. 
Their fire was inefffectuai, and the provincials gradually 
resumed their courage, 

25. A few discharges of the artillery drove the Cana- 
dians and Indians to the swamps. The regulars, although 
deserted by the auxiliaries, maintained the conflict for 
more than an hour, with much steadiness and resolution. 
Dieskau, convinced that all his efforts must be unavafling, 
then gave orders to retreat. This produced some con- 
fusion, which bein^ perceived by the provincials, they 
simultaneously, and without orders or concert, leaped 
over the intrenchments, fell upon the French soldiers, and 
killed, captured, or dispersed them. The baron was 
wounded and made prisoner. 

26. The next day, colonel Blanchard, who commanded 
at fort Edward, despatched captain Folsom, of New 
Hampshire? with two hundred men, to the assistance of 
general Johnson. On his way, he discovered between 
three and fourhundred of the enemy seated around a pond, 
not far from the place where colonel Williams had been 
defeated. Notwithstanding his inferiority in numbers, he 

1 



116 FRENCH WAR OF 1754r— 63 [1756. 

determined to attack them. So impetuous was the onset, 
that, after a sharp conflict, the enemy fled. In the several 
engagements, the provincials lost about two hundred men, 
the enemy upwards of seven hundred. 

27. GeneralJohnson,tliough strongly importuned by the 
government of Massachusetts, refused to proceed upon his 
expedition, which was abandoned, and most of his troops 
returned to their respective colonies. Thus ended the 
campaign of 1755. It opened with the brightest prospects ; 
immense preparations had been made, yet not one of the 
objects of the three great expeditions had been attained. 

28. During the fall and winter, the southern colonies 
were ravaged, and the usual barbarities perpetrated upon 
the frontier inhabitants, by the savages, who, on the defeat 
of Braddock, and the retreat of his army, saw nothing to 
restrain their fury. In Virginia and Pennsvlvania, dis- 
putes existed between the governors and legislatures, 
which prevented all attention to the means of defence. 
Scarcely a post was maintained, or a soldier employed in 
their service. 

29. The colonies, far from being discouraged by the 
misfortunes of the last campaig«i, determined to renew and 
increase their exertions. General Shirley, to whom the 
superintendence of all the mihtary operations had been 
confided, assembled a council of war at New York, to 
concert a plan for the ensuing year. He proposed that 
expeditions should be carried on against De Quesne, Ni- 
agara, and Crown Point, and that a body of troops should 
be sent, by the way of the rivers Kennebec and Chau- 
diere, to alarm the French for the safety of Quebec. This 
plan was unanimously adopted by the council. 

»30. Shirley, on the last of January, returned to Boston 
to meet the assembly of Massachusetts, of which colony 
he was governor. He endeavored to persuade them to 
concur in the measures proposed ; but, disgusted with the 
proceedings of the last campaign, and especially at gener- 
al Johnson's neglecting to pursue his advantages, they 
were unwilling to engage in offensive operations, unless 
the command of then* forces should be given to general 
Winslow, who had acquired popularity by his success in 
Nova Scotia. Their wishes were complied with, and tlieir 
concurrence was then granted. 

31. In April, news arrived from Great Britain, that the 
conduct of general Johnson, instead of being censured, 
was considered highly meretorious ; that, as a reward for 



1756.] FUENCH WAR OF 1754—63. 117 

his success, the king had conferred upon him the title of 
baronet, and parliament a grant of five thousand pounds 
sterling , that his majesty disapproved of the conduct of 
Shirley, and had determined to remove him from command. 

32. This information not being official, general Shirley 
continued his preparations with his usual activity and zeal. 
While engaged in collecting, at Albany, the troops from 
the differentcolonies, general Webb brought from England 
official information of his removal. On the 25th of June, 
general Abercrombie arrived, and took command of the 
army. It now consisted of about twelve thousand men, 
and was more numerous and better prepared for the field 
than any army that had ever been assembled in America. 

33. Singular as it may appear, while this sanguinary 
war raged in America, the intercourse between the two 
nations in Europe, not only continued uninterrupted, but 
seemed more than usually friendly. This unnatural state 
of things could not long continue. Great Britain declared 
war in May, and France in June. 

34. The change of commanders delayed the operations 
of the English army. The French were active ; and on 
the 12th of July, g;eneral Abercrombie received intelli- 
gence that they meditated an attack upon Oswego, a post 
of the utmost importance. General Webb was ordered to 
prepare to march with a regiment for the defence of that 
place. In the mean time, lord Loudon, who had been ap- 
pointed commander-in-chief over all the British forces m 
the colonies, arrived in America. 

35. Amidst the ceremonies which followed, the affairs 
of the war were forgotten. General Webb did not begin 
his march untilthe 12th of August. Before he had pro- 
ceeded far, he learned that Oswego was actually besieged 
by a large army of French and Indians. Alarmed for his 
own safety, he proceeded no farther, but employed his 
troops in erecting fortifications for their defence. 

36. General Montcalm, the commander of the French 
troops in Canada, began the siege of Oswego on the 12th 
of August. On the 14th, the English commander having 
been killed, terms of surrender were proposed by the gar- 
rison, and were agreed to. These terms were shameiully 
violated. Several of the British officers and soldiers were 
insulted, robbed, and massacred by the Indians. Most of 
the sick were scalped in the hospitals, and the French 
general delivered twenty of the garrison to the savages, 
Siat being the number they had lost during the siege 



118 FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63 [1757 

Those unhappy wretches were, doubtless, according to 
the Indian custom, tortured and burnt. 

37. General Webb was permitted to retreat, unmolest- 
ed, to x-llbany. Lord Loudon pretended it was now too 
late in the season to attempt any thing further, though the 
troops under general Winslow were within a few days' 
march of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and were suffi- 
cient in number to justify an attack upon those places. 
He devoted the remainder of the season to making prep- 
arations for an early and vigorous campaign the ensuing 
year. 

38. This spring had opened with still more brilliant 
prospects than the last ; and the season closed without 
the occurrence of a single event that was honorable to 
the British arms, or advantageous to the colonies. This 
want of success was justly attributed to the removal of 
the provincial officers, who were well acquainted with the 
theatre of operations, but whom the ministry, desirous 
of checking the growth of talents in the colonies, were 
unwilling to employ. Yet the several assembhes, though 
they saw themselves thus slighted, and their money annu- 
ally squandered, made all the preparations that were re- 
quired of them for the next campaign. 

39. The reduction of Louisburgh was the object to 
which the ministry directed the attention of lord Loudon. 
In the spring of 1757, he sailed from New York, with 
6000 men, and, at Halifax, met admiral Holbourn, with 
transports containing an equal number of troops, and a 
naval force consisting of fifteen ships of the line. When 
about to proceed to their place of destination, intelhgence 
arrived that the garrison at Louisburgh had received a 
large reinforcement, and expected and desired a visit 
from the English. Disheartened by this intelligence, the 
general and admiral abandoned the expedition. 

40. While the English commanders were thus irresolute 
and idle, the French were enterprising and active. In 
March, general Montcalm made an attempt to surprise 
fort William Henry, at the south end of lake George, 
but was defeated by the vigilance and bravery of the 
garrison. He returned to Crown Point, leaving a party 
of troops at Ticonderoga. Against this post, near four 
hundred men were sent from the fort, under the command 
of colonel Parker. 

41. The colonel was deceived in his intelligence, de- 
coyed into an ambuscade, and attacked with such fury 



1757.] FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. 119 

that but two officers and seventy privates escaped. En- 
courag-ed by this success, Montcalm determined to return 
and besiege fort William Henry. For this purpose, he 
assembled an army consisting of regular troops, Canadi- 
ans and Indians, and amounting to near ten thousand men. 

42. Major Putnam, a brave and active partisan, obtained 
information of the purposes of Montcalm, which he com- 
municated to general Webb, who, in the absence of lord 
Loudon, commanded the British troops in that quarter. 
The general enjoined silence upon Putnam, and adopted 
no other measure, on receiving the intelligence, than 
sending colonel Monro to take command of the fort. 

43. The day after this officer, ignorant of what was 
to happen, had arrived at his post, the lake appeared 
covered with boats, which swiftly approached the shore. 
Montcalm, with but little opposition, etfected a landing, 
and immediately began the siege. The garrison, con- 
sisting of two thousand five hundrod men, animated by 
the expectation of relief, made a gallant^efence. 

44. General Webb had an army at fort Edward, of 
more than four thousand men, and it was in his power to 
call in a large number of provincial troops from New 
/ork and New England. To him colonel Monro sent 
repeated and pressing solicitations for immediate succor. 
These he disregarded, seeming entirely indifferent to the 
Jistressing situation of his fellow soldiers. 

45. At length, on the ninth day of the siege, in com- 
pliance with the entreaties of the friends of Monro, gen- 
eral Webb despatched sir William Johnson, with a body 
of men, to his relief. They had not proceeded three 
miles, when the order was countermanded. Webb then 
wrote to Monro that he could affi)rd him no assistance, 
and advised him to surrender on the best terms that he 
could obtain. 

46. This letter was intercepted by Montcalm, who, in 
a conference which he procured, handed it himself to the 
commander of the fort. All hope of relief being ex- 
tinguished, articles of capitulation were agreed to. In 
these it was expressly stipulated by Montcalm, that the 
prisoners should be protected from the savages, by a 
guard, and that the sick and wounded should be treated 
with humanity. 

47. But the next morning, a great nnmber of Indians, 
having been permitted to enter the lines, began to plunder. 
Meeting with no opposition, tJiey fell upon the sick and 



120 FRENCH WAR OF 1754--63. [1758. 

wounded, whom they immediately massacred. This ex- 
cited their appetite for carnage. The defenceless troops 
were surrounded and attacked with fiend-like fury. Mon- 
ro, hastening to Montcalm, implored him to provide the 
stipulated guard. 

48. His entreaties were ineffectual, and the massacre 
proceeded. All was turbulence and horror. On every 
side, savages were butchering and scalping their wretch- 
ed victims. Their hideous yells, the groans of the dying 
and the frantic shrieks of others, shrinking from the up- 
lifted tomahawk, were heard by the French unmoved. 
The fury of the savages was permitted to rage without 
restraint, until a large number were killed, or hurried 
captives into the wilderness. 

49. The day after this awful tragedy, major Putnam 
was sent, with his rangers, to watcli the motions of the 
enemy. When he came to the shore of the lake, their 
rear was hardly Jjeyond the reach of musket shot. The 
prospect was shocking and horrid. The fort was demol- 
ished. The barracks and buildings were yet burning. 
Innumerable fragments of human carcasses still broiled 
in the decaying fires. Dead bodies, mangled with toma- 
hawks and scalping knives, in all the wantonness of Indian 
barbarity, were every where scattered around. 

50. General Webb, apprehensive of an attack upon 
himself, sent expresses to the provinces for reinforce- 
ments. They were raised and despatched with expedi- 
tion ; but as Montcalm returned to Ticonderoga, they 
were kept in service but a few weeks. And thus ended 
the third campaign in America. 

51. These continual disasters resulted from folly and 
mismanagement, rather than from want of means and 
mihtary strength. The British nation was alarmed and 
indignant, and the king found it necessary to change his 
councils. At the head of the new ministry he placed the 
celebrated William Pitt, who rose, by the force of his tal- 
ents alone, from the humble post of ensign in the guards, 
to the control of the destinies of a mighty empire. Pub- 
lic confidence revived, and the nation seemed inspired 
with new hfe and vigor. 

52. For the next campaign, the ministry determined 
upon three expeditions ; one of twelve thousand men 
against Louisburgh ; one of sixteen thousand against 
Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and one of eight thousand 
against fort Du Quesne. The colonies were called upon 



1758.] FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. 121 

to render all the assistance in their power. Lord Loudon 
having been recalled, the command of the expedition 
against Louisburgh was given to general Amherst, under 
worn general Wolfe served as a brigadier. The place 
was invested on the 12th of June. Amherst made his 
approaches with much circumspection ; and, without any 
memorable incident, the siege terminated, on the 26th of 
July, by the surrender of the place. Whenever an op- 
portunity occurred, general Wolfe, who was then young, 
displayed all that fire, impetuosity, and discretion, which 
afterwards immortalized his name. 

53. The expedition against Ticonderoga was com- 
manded by general Abercrombie. He was accompanied 
by lord Howe, whose military talents and amiable virtues 
made him the darling of the soldiery. This army consisted 
of seven thousand regular troops, and ten thousand pro- 
vincials. When approaching the fort, a skirmish took 
place with a small party of the enemy, in which lord 
Howe was killed at the first fire. On seeing him fall, the 
troops moved forward with an animated determination to 
avenge his death. Three hundred of the enemy were killed 
on the spot, and one hundred and forty made prisoners. 

.54. The ardor of his men, and the intelligence gained 
from the prisoners, induced general Abercrombie to make 
an assault upon the works. It was received with un- 
daunted bravery, and was persevered in with singular 
obstinacy. For four hours, the troops remained before 
the walls, attempting to scale them, and exposed to a 
destructive fire of musketry and artillery. The general, 
despairing of success, then directed a retreat. Near two 
thousand of the assailants were killed or wounded. The 
loss of the French was not great, and most of the killed 
were shot through the head, the other parts of their 
bodies being projected by their works. 

.55. After this bloody repulse, Abercrombie despatched 
colonel Bradstreet, with three thousand men, mostly pro- 
vincials, against fort Frontenac, which was situated on 
lake Ontario, and contained a large quantity of merchan- 
dise, provisions, and military stores. It fell an easy con- 
quest, and the loss was severely felt by the French. The 
western Indians, not receiving their usual supply of mer- 
chandise, relaxed in their exertions ; and the troops at Du 
Quesne suffered from the want of the provisions and mili- 
tary stores. These circumstances contributed essentially 
to facilitate the operations of the third expedition. 



122 FRENCH WAR OF 1754-63. [1759. 

56. This was placed under the command of general 
Forbes. He left Philadelphia in the beginning of July, 
and, after a laborious march, through deep morasses and 
over unexplored mountains, arrived at Raystown, ninety 
miles from Du Quesne. An advanced party of eight 
hundred men, under the command of major Grant, was 
met by a detatchment from the fort, and defeated, with 
great slaughter. 

57. Forbes, undismayed by this disaster, advanced with 
caution and steady perseverance. The enemy observing 
his circumstances, determined not to abide the event of 
a siege. After dismantling the fort, they retired down 
the Ohio, to their settlements on the Mississippi. Gene- 
ral Forbes, taking possession of the place, changed its 
name to Pittsburgh. 

58. The campaign of 1758 was highly honorable to the 
British arms. Of the three expeditions, two had com- 
pletely succeeded, and the leader of the third had made 
an important conquest. To the commanding talents ot 
Pitt, and the confidence which they inspired, this change 
of fortune must be attributed ; and in no respect were 
these talents more strikingly displayed, than in the choice 
of men to execute his plans. 

59. Encouraged by the events of this year, the English 
anticipated still greater success in the campaign vvhich 
was to follow. The plan marked out by the minister, 
was indicative of the boldness and energy of his genius. 
Three different armies were, at the same time, to be led 
against the three strongest posts of the French in Ameri- 
ca ; Niagara, Ticonderoga, and Quebec. The latter post 
was considered the strongest ; and it was therefore intend- 
ed that, should Ticonderoga be conquered, the victorious 
army should press forward to assist in its reduction. 

60. In the beginning of July, general Prideaux enbark- 
ed on lake Ontario, with the army destined against Niaga- 
ra, and, on the sixth, landed about three miles from the 
fort. He immediately commenced a siege, in the pro- 
gress of which he was killed, by the bursting of a shell. 
The command devolved upon sir William Johnson. An 
army of French and Indians approaching soon after, he 
detached a part of his forces to meet them. A battle en- 
sued ; the English gained the victory, which was followed 
by the surrender ofthe fort 

61. General Amherst, to whom was assaigned the expe- 
dition against Ticonderoga, found so many difficulties to 



1759.] FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63. 123 

surmount, that he was unable to present himself before 
that place until late in July. It was immediately aban- 
doned by the enemy. The British general, after repairing 
the works, proceeded against Crown Point. On his ap- 
proach, this was also deserted, the enemy retiring to the 
Isle aux Noix. To gain possession of this post, great 
efforts were made, and much time consumed ; but a suc- 
cession of storms on lake Champlain prevented success. 
General Amherst was compelled to lead back his army 
to Crown Point, where he encamped for the winter. 

62. The expedition against Quebec was the most daring 
and important. That place, strong by nature, had been 
made still stronger by art, and had received the appropri- 
ate appellation of the Gibraltar of America. Every ex- 
pedition against it had failed. It was now commanded by 
Montcalm, an officer of distinguished reputation ; and an 
attempt to reduce it must have seemed chimerical to any 
one but Pitt. He judged rightly, that the boldest and most 
dangerous enterprises are often the most successful. 
They arouse the energies of man, and elevate them to a 
level with the dangers and difficulties to be encountered, 
especially when committed to ardent minds, glowing with 
enthusiasm, and emulous of glory. 

63. Such a mind he had discovered in general Wolfe, 
whose conduct at Louisburgh had attracted his attention. 
He appointed him to conduct the expedition, and gave him 
for assistants, brigadier-generals Moncton, Townshend, 
and Murray ; all, like himself, young and ardent. Early 
in the season, he sailed from Hahfax, with eight thousand 
troops, and, near the last of June, landed the whole army 
on the island of Orleans, a few miles below Quebec. 

64. From this position he could take a near and distinct 
view of the obstacles to be overcome. These were so 
great, that even the bold and sanguine Wolfe perceived 
more to fear than to hope. In a letter to Mr. Pitt, written 
before commencing operations, he declared that he saw 
but little prospect of reducing the place. 

65. Qu ebec stands on the north side of the St. Lawrence, 
and consists of an upper and lower town. The lower town 
lies between the river and a bold and lofty eminence, 
which runs parallel to it, far to the westward. At the top 
of this eminence is a plain, upon which the upper town is 
situated. Below, or east of the city, is the river St. 
Charles, whose channel is rough, and whose banks are 
steep and broken. A short distance farther down is the 

M 



124 FRENCH WAR OF 1754—63 [1759. 

river Montmorency ; and between these two rivers, and 
reaching from one to the other, was encamped the French 
army, strongly entrenched and at least equal in number 
to that of the English. 

66. General Wolfe took possession of Point Levi, on 
the bank of ttie river opposite Quebec, and from that posi- 
tion cannonaded the town. Some injury was done to the 
houses, but his cannon were too distant to make any im- 
pression upon the works of the enemy. He resolved to 
quit this post, to land below Montmorency, and passing that 
river, to attack the French general in his entrenchments. 

67. He succeeded in landing his troops, and, with a 
portion of his army, crossed the Montmorency. A partial 
engagement took place, in which the French obtained the 
advantage. Relinquishing this plan, he then determined, 
in concert with the admiral, to destroy the French shipping 
and magazines. Two attempts were unsuccessful ; a thira 
was more fortunate, yet but little was effected. At this 
juncture, intelligence arrived that Niagara was taken, that 
riconderoga and Crown Point had been abandoned, but 
that general Amherst, instead of pressing forward to their 
assistance, was preparing to attack the Isle aux Noix. 

68. Wolfe rejoiced at the triumph of his brethren in 
arms, but could not avoid contrasting their success with 
his own ill fortune. His mind, alike lofty and susceptible, 
was deeply impressed by the disasters at Montmorency ; 
and the extreme chagrin of his spirits, preying upon his 
delicate frame, sensibly affected his health. He was 
observed frequently to sigh; and, as if life was only valu- 
able while it added to his glory, he declared to his intimate 
friends, that he would not survive the disgrace which he 
imagined would attend the failure of his enterprise. 

69. Despairing of success below the town, he next 
directed his efforts towards effecting a landing above it. 
He removed a part of his army to Point Levi, and the 
remainder higher up the river. He now found that, on 
this quarter, the fortifications were not strong ; and dis- 
covered that the heights behind them might possibly be 
gained, by ascending the precipice in a narrow path, which 
was defended only by a captain's guard. 

70. The difficulties attendmgthis enterprise were nume- 
rous. The current was rapid, the shore shelving, the only 
landing place so narrow that it might easily be missed in 
the dark, and the steep above, such as troops, even when 
unopposed, could not ascend without difficulty. Yet the 



1759.] FREJNCH WAR OF 1754—63 125 

plan, though bold and hazardous, was well adapted to the 
desperate situation of affairs, and was determined on. 

71. To conceal their intention, the admiral retired seve- 
ral leagues up the river. During the evening, a strong 
detatchment was put on board the boats, and moved si- 
lently down with the tide, to the place of landing, where 
they arrived an hour before day break. Wolfe leaped on 
shore, was followed by the troops, and all instantly began, 
with the assistance of shrubs and projecting rocks, to 
Climb up the precipice. The guard was dispersed, and, by 
the dawn of day, the whole army gained the heights of 
Abraham, where the different corps were formed under 
their respective leaders. 

73. Montcalm, at first, could not believe that the Eng- 
lish had ascended the heights. When convinced of the 
fact, he comprehended the full advantage they had gained. 
He saw that a battle was inevitable, and prepared for it 
with promptness and courage. Leaving his camp at 
Montmorency, he advanced towards the English army, 
which was formed in order of battle to receive him. 

72. The French advanced briskly. The English re- 
served their fire until the enemy were near, and then gave 
it with decisive effect Early in the engagement, Wolfe 
was wounded in the wrist, but preserving his composure, 
he continued to encourage his troops. Soon after, he re- 
ceived a shot in the groin, This painful wound he also 
concealed, placed himself at the head of the grenadiers, 
and was leading them to the charge, when he received a 
third and mortal wound. 

74. Undismayed by the fall of their general, the English 
continued their exertions under Moncton, who, in a short 
thne»was himself wounded»and the command devolved upon 
Townshend. About the same time, Montcalm received a 
mortal wound, and the second in command also fell. The 
jeft wing and centre of the French gave way. Part were 
driven into Quebec, and part over the river St. Charles. 

75. On receiving his mortal wound, Wolfe was con- 
veyed into the rear, where, careless about himself, he 
discovered, in the agonies of death, the most anxious 
solicitude concerning the fate of the day. From extreme 
faintness, he had reclined his head on the arm of an officer, 
out was soon aroused by the cry of, " They fly, they fly." 
" Who fly 1" exclaimed the dying hero. " The French," 
answered his attendant. "Then," said he, "I die con- 
tented," and immediately expired. A death so glorious, 



126 REVOLUTION. 

and attended by circumstances so interesting, has seldom 
been recorded in history. 

76. Five days after the battle, the city surrendered, 
and received an English garrison. The French concen- 
trated their remaining forces at Montreal, and, early in the 
spring, made attempts to regain possession of Quebec- 
Unsuccessful in these, they returned to Montreal, towards 
which the whole British force in America, under the com- 
mand of general Amherst, was approaching. This force 
was too strong to be resisted. In September, 1760, tha-t 
city surrendered, and soon after all the French posts in 
Canada fell into the power of the English. 

77. In the other parts of the world, their arms were 
equally successful ; and, at the commencement of 1763, 
a peace, hio-hly advantageous to their interests, was con- 
cluded at Paris. By the treaty, France ceded to Great 
Britain, all her northern settlements in America, whicli 
relieved the colonies from the continual dread of savago 
incursions. 



CHAPTER XV. 

REVOLUTION. 

In the late brilliant contest, England had made unpre- 
cedented exertions. At its close, she found that, though 
she had encircled her name with glory, and added ex- 
tensive territories to her empire, she had increased, in 
proportion, the burdens of her subjects, having added 
three hundred and twenty millions of dollars to the amount 
of her debt. To find the means of defraying the annual 
charges of this debt, and her other increased expendi- 
tures, was the first and difficult task other legislators. 

2. Regard for their own interest and popularity im- 
pelled them to avoid, if possible, imposing the whole bur- 
den upon themselves and their fellow subjects at home ; 
and their thoughts were turned to the colonies, as the 
source whence alleviation and assistance might be derived. 
On their account, it was alleged, the contest had been 
waged ; they would share the advantages of its glorious 
termination, and justice required that they should also 
defray a portion of the expenses. 

3. To adopt this expedient, the British ministry were 



1764.] REVOLUTION. 127 

the more naturally led by the opinion which all the Euro- 
pean governments entertained of the relation between the 
mother country and her colonies. They were supposed 
to be dependent on her will ; their inhabitants a distinct 
and subordinate class of subjects, and thei*. interests en- 
tirely subservient to her aggrandizement and prosperity. 

4. Actingupon these principles, Great Britain had, by 
her laws of trade and navigation, confined the commerce 
of the colonies almost wholly to herself. To encourage 
her own artisans, she had even, in some cases, prohibited 
the establishment of manufactories in America. These 
restrictions, while they increased her revenue and wealth, 
greatly diminished the profits of the trade of the colonies, 
and sensibly impeded their interna] prosperity. They were 
most injurious to New England, where the sterility of the 
soil repelled the people from the pursuits of agriculture ; 
there they were most frequently violated, and there the 
arbitrary mode of enforcing them, by writs of assistance, 
awakened the attention of a proud and jealous people to 
their natural rights, to their rights as English subjects, 
and to the rights granted and secured by their charters. 

5. In the beginning of the year 1764, the British par- 
liament enacted a law imposing duties upon certain arti- 
cles of merchandise, to be paid in the colonial ports. Mr. 
Grenville, the prime minister, also proposed a resolution, 
" that it would be proper to charge certain stamp duties 
on the colonies," but postponed the consideration of that 
subject to a future session. As it was foreseen that the 
law would be disregarded, if extraordinary measures 
were not adopted to enforce it, provision was made that 
all penalties for violations of it, and of all other revenue 
laws, might be recovered in the admiralty courts. The 
judges of these courts were dependent solely on the king, 
anadecided the causes brought before them, without the 
intervention of a jury. 

6. Intelligence of these proceedings occasioned, in 
America, great and universal alarm. They were con- 
sidered the commencement of a system of taxation, which, 
if not vigorously resisted, would, in time, be extended to 
every article of commerce, and to every internal source 
of income ; and if the colonists could be deprived in one 
class of causes, why not in all, of that inestimable privi- 
lege, the trial by jury 1 

7. The general court of Massachusetts, at their session 
m June, took this law into consideration. The house of 

m 



128 REVOLUTION. [1764. 

representatives sent a spirited letter of instructions to 
their ageni, in England, in which they denied the right of 
parliament to impose duties and taxes upon the people not 
represented in the house of commons ; and directed him 
to remonstrate against the duties imposed, and ihe stamp 
act in contemplation. They also acquainted the other 
colonies with the instruction they had given to their agent, 
and desired their concurrence in the mode of opposition 
adopted. In the course of the year, several other colo- 
nies, particularly New York and Virginia, remonstrated 
in respectful, but decided terms, against the proceedings 
of parliament. 

8. In these several state papers, the right of Great 
Britain to collect a tax in the colonies, was explicitly 
denied ; and the denial was supported by clear and pow- 
erful arguments. It was stated that the first emigrants 
came to America with the undoubted consent of the 
mother country ; that all the expenses of removal, of pur- 
chasing the territory, and, for a long time, of protection 
from savage warfare, were defrayed by private individu- 
als, except in the single instance of the settlement of Geor- 
gia; that charters under the great seal, were given to the 
emigrants, imparting and securing to them and to their 
descendants, all the rights of natural born English sub- 
jects ; that of these rights, none was more indisputable, 
and none more highly valued, than that no subject could be 
deprived cf his property but by his own consent, expressed 
in person or by his representative ; that taxes were but 
grants, by the representative, of a portion of his own 
property, and of that of those who had authorized him to 
act in their behalf. Could it be just, it was asked, that 
the represtatives of Englishmen should "give and grant" 
the property of Americans ] With what safety to the col- 
onies could the right of taxing them be confined to a body 
of men three thousand miles distant, over whom they had 
no control, none of whom could be acquainted with their 
situation or resources, and whose interests would impel 
them to make the burdens of the colonists heavy, that 
their own might be light ) 

9. But, besides infringing the rights of freemen, the 
measure was neither equitable nor generous. The colo- 
nies had domestic governments which they alone sup- 
ported ; in the late war, their exertions had beiSn greater, 
m proportion to their ability, than those of England ; they 
also had contracted debts which they must themselves 



1765.] REVOLUTK)N. 129 



pay ; the taxes laid by many of the assemblies, were 
higher than those paid by the inhabitants of England ; if 
the war had been waged on their account, it was because, 
as colonies, they were beneficial to the mother country ; 
and from its happy termination, they derived no advantage 
which was not the source of ultimate profit to her. 

10. Upon men who entertained the strictest notions of 
colonial dependence, and parliamentary supremacy, these 
arguments had little effect. The minister was not diverted 
from his purpose. In March, 1765, he laid before parlia- 
ment a bill, imposing stamp duties on certain papers and 
documents used in the colonies. At the first reading, it 
was warmly opposed ; by some because it was impolitic, 
by two only because it was a violation of right. 

11. The bill was supported by Charles Townshend, a 
brilliant orator on the side of the ministry. At the con- 
clusion of an animated speech, he demanded : " And these 
Americans, children planted by our care, nourished by our 
indulgence, protected by our arms, until they are grov/n 
to a good degree of strength and opulence, will they 

grudge to contribute their mite to relieve us from the 
eavy load of national expense which we lie under ?" 

12. Colonel Barre, immediately rising, indignantly and 
eloquently exclaimed. " Children planted by your care ! 
No. Your oppressions planted them in America. They 
fled from your tyranny into a then uncultivated land, 
where they were exposed to all the hardships to which 
human nature is liable ; and among others, to the cruel- 
ties of a savage foe, the most subtle, and, I will take upon 
me to say, the most terrible, that ever inhabited any part 
of God's earth. And yet, actuated by principles of true 
English liberty, they met all these hardships with pleasure, 
when they compared them with those they suffered in 
their own country, from men who should have been their 
friends. 

13. " T%ey nourished by your indulgence ! No. They 
erew by your neglect. When you began to care about, 
mem, that care was exercised in sending persons to rule 
over them, who were the deputies of some deputy sent to 
spy out their liberty, to misrepresent their actions, and to 
nrey upon them ; whose behaviour, on many occasions, 
has caused the blood of those sons of liberty to recoil 
within them ; men promoted to the highest seats of justice, 
some of whom were glad, by going to a foreign country, 
to escape being brought to the bar of justice in their own. 



130 REVOLUTION. [176a. 

14. " Tliey protected by your arms ! They have nobly 
taken up arms in your defence. They have exerted their 
valor, amidst their constant and laborious industry, for 
the defence of a country which, vi^hile its frontier was 
drenched in blood, has yielded all its little savings to your 
emolument. Believe me, and remember I this day told 
you so, the same spirit which actuated that people at first, 
still continues with them ; but prudence forbids me to 
explain myself further. 

15. " God knows I do not at this time speak from party 
heat. However superior to me in general knowledge and 
experience anyone here may be, 1 claim to know more 
of America, having been conversant in that country. The 
people there are as truly loyal as any subjects the king 
has, but they are a people jealous of their hberties, and 
will vindicate them if they should be violated. But the 
eubject is delicate ; I will say no more." 

16. Eloquence and argument availed nothing. The bill 
was almost unanimously passed. The night after, doctor 
Franklin, then in England as agent for Pennsylvania, 
wrote to Charles Thompson : " The sun of liberty is set ; 
you must light up the candles of industry and economy." 
*' Be assured," said Mr. Thompson, in reply, " that we 
shall light up torches of quite another sort ;" thus predict- 
ing the commotions which followed. 

17. The act provided that all contracts and legal pro- 
cesses should be written on stamped paper, which was to 
be furnished, at exorbitant prices, by the government, or 
should have no force in law. Information of its passage 
was received in all the colonies with sorrow and dismay. 
They saw that they must either surrender, without a 
struggle, their darling rights, or resist the government of 
a nation, which they had been accustomed to regard with 
filial respect, and was then the most powerful in the world. 

18. The general assembly of Virginia were in session 
when the mformation arrived. Cff that body, Patrick 
Henry, a young man, but a distinguished orator, was a 
member. Near the close of the session, he proposed five 
resolutions, in the first four of which were asserted the 
various rights and privileges claimed by the colonists, and, 
in the fifth, the right of parliament to tax America, was 
boldly and explicitly denied. These he defended by 
strong reason and irresistible eloquence, and they were 
adopted by a majority of one. 

19. The next day, in his absence, the fifth resolutior. 



1765.] REVOLUTION 131 

was rescinded ; but that and the others had gone forth to 
the world, and imparted higher animation to the friends of 
freedom. They were a signal to the resolute and ardent ; 
they gave encouragement to the timid and cautious ; they 
weremdustriously but privately circulated, in the principal 
cities, until they arrived in I^ew England, where they 
were fearlessly published in all the newspapers. 

20. Nearly at the same time, and before the proceedings 
of Virginia were known in Massachusetts, her general 
court adopted measures to procure a combined opposition 
to the offensive laws. They passed a resolve proposing 
that a congress of delegates from the several colonies, 
should be held at New i ork, and addressed letters to the 
other assemblies, earnestly soliciting their concurrence. 

21. These legislative proceedings took place in May 
and June, 1765. They were the moderate and dignified 
expression of feelings, which animated, in a more intense 
degree, a great majority of the people. In New England, 
associations, for the purpose of resisting the law, were 
organized, assuming, from Barre's speech, the appellation 
of " Sons of Liberty ;" pamphlets were published vindi- 
cating the rights of the colonies ; and the public journals 
were filled with essays pointing out the danger which 
threatened the cause of liberty, and encouraging a bold 
and manly resistance. 

22. Excited by these publications, a multitude assembled 
yn. Boston, on the 14th of August, burned the effigy of 
Andrew Ohver, who had been appointed stamp-distribu- 
ter, and demolished a building which they supposed he 
had erected for his office. Fearful of farther injury, Mr. 
Oliver declared his intention to resign, when the people 
desisted from molesting him. 

23. Several dfiys afterwards, a mob beset the house of 
Mr. Story, an officer of the detested admiralty court. 
They broke his windows, destroyed his furniture, and 
burned his papers. They then proceeded to the house of 
lieutenant-governor Hutchinson, by whose advice, it was 
supposed, the stamp-act had been passed. They entered 
It by force. Himself, his wife, and children fled. His 
^egant furniture was carried off or destroyed. The par- 
titions of the house were broken down, and the next 
morning nothing but the bare and desolate walls remained. 

24-. When intelligence of these proceedings reached 
Newport, in Rhode Island, the people of that place as- 
sembled and committed similar outrages. Two houses 



132 REVOLUTION. [1765. 

were pillaged, and the stamp-distributer, to preserve his 
own, was obliged to give to the leader of the exasperated 
populace a written resignation of his office. In Connec- 
ticut, similar commotions were also quieted by the resig- 
nation of the distributer of stamps for that colony. 

25. In New York, the people displayed equal spirit, but 
less turbulence and ra^e. The obnoxious act was print- 
ed, under the title of " The folly of England, and the ruin 
of America," and thus exhibited for sale in the streets. 
At an early period, the stamp-distributer prudently resign- 
ed his office ; and when the stamped paper arived, it was 
deposited for safe keeping in the fort. A mob required 
the lieutenant-governor to place it in their hands. He re- 
fused ; but, terrified by their menaces, consented to de- 
fiver it to the magistrates, who deposited it in the city 
hall. Ten boxes, which afterwards arrived, were seized 
by the people, and committed to the flames. 

26. bo general was the opposition to the law, that the 
stamp-officers, in all the colonies, were compefied to re- 
sign. In Boston, care was taken, on the one hand, to pre- 
vent the recurrence of violent proceedings, and, on the 
other, to keep in full vigor the spirit of resistance. A 
newspaper was estabfished, having for its device a snake 
divided into as many parts as there were colonies, and for 
its motto, " Join or die." Mr. Oliver was required to re- 
sign his office, with more ceremony and solemnity, under 
a large elm, which had, from the meetings held under it, 
received the name of the tree of liberty. 

27. In October, the congress recommended by Massa- 
chusetts, convened at New York. Delegates from nine 
provinces only were present. Their first act was a Dec- 
laration of Rights, m which they asserted, that the col- 
onies were entitled to all the rights and liberties of nat- 
ural born subjects within the kingdom of Great Britain, 
the most essential of which were the exclusive right to 
tax themselves, and the privilege of trial by jury. A pe- 
tition to the king, and a memorial to both houses of par- 
liament, were also agreed on ; and the colonial assem- 
blies were advised to appoint special agents to solicit, in 
concert, a redress of grievances. To interest the people 
of England in the cause of the colonies, the merchants of 
New York directed their correspondents, in that country, 
to purchase no more goods until the stamp-act should be 
repealed. Immediately after, non-importation agreements 
were adopted in the other colonies, and 3ssociations were 



1766.] REVOLUTION. 133 

organized for the encouragement of domestic manufac- 
tures. To avoid the necessity of stamps, proceedings in 
the courts of justice were suspended, and disputes were 
settled by arbitration. 

28. In the mean time, an entire change had taken place 
in the British Cabinet, and a proposition to repeal the 
stamp-act was, by the new ministry, laid before parha- 
ment An interesting debate ensued. Mr. Grenville, the 
late prime minister, declared, that to repeal the act under 
existing circumstances, would degrade the government, 
and encourage rebellion. " When," he demanded, "were 
the Americans emancipated 3 By what law, by what 
reason do they ungratefully claim exemption from defray- 
ing expenses incurred in protecting them 7" 

29. William Pitt, he who had wielded, with such mighty 
effect, the power of England, in the late war, rose to reply. 
He regretted that he had not been able to attend in his 
place, and oppose the law on its passage. " It is now an 
act that has passed. I would speak with decency of eve- 
ry act of this house ; but I must beg the indulgence of this 
house to speak of it with freedom. Assuredly a more 
important subject never engaged your attention ; that 
subject only excepted, when nearly a century ago, it was 
the question whether you yourselves were bond or free ? 

30. " Those who have spoken before me, with so much 
vehemence, would maintain the act because our honor 
demands it. But can the point of honour stand opposed 
against justice, against reason, against right ] It is my 
opinion that England has no right to tax the colonies. 
At the same time, I assert the authority of this kingdom 
over the colonies to be sovereign and supreme, in every 
circumstance of government and legislation whatsoever. 

31. " Taxation is no part of the governing or legisla- 
tive power. The taxes are a voluntary gift and grant of 
the commons alone ; when, therefore, in this house, we 
give and grant, we give and grant what is our own. But 
m an American tax, what do we do'? We, your majes- 
ty's commons of Great Britain, give and grant to your 
majesty — what] Our own property 3 No. We give and 
grant to your majesty the property of your commons in 
America. It is an absurdity in terms. 

32. " It has been asked, when were the Americans 
emancipated ] But I desire to know when they were 
made slaves. I hear it said, that America is obstinate ; 
America is almost in open rebellion. I rejoice that 



134 REVOLUTION. [1766. 

America has resisted. Three millions of people, so dead 
to all the feelings of liberty as voluntarily to submit to be 
slaves, would have been fit instruments to make slaves 
of ourselves. 

33. "The honorable member has said, for he is fluent 
in words of bitterness, that America is ungrateful. He 
boasts of his bounties towards her. But are not these 
bounties intended finally for the benefit of this kingdom ? 
The profits of Great Britain, from her commerce with 
the colonies, are two millions a year. This is the fund 
that carried you triumphantly through the last war. The 
estates that were rented at two thousand pounds a year, 
seventy years ago, are at three thousand pounds at pres- 
ent. You owe this to America. This is the price she pays 
you for protection. 

34. " A great deal has been said without doors, and 
more than is discreet, of the power, of the strength of 
America. In a good cause, on a sound bottom, the force 
of this country can crush America to atoms. But on the 
ground of this tax, when it is wished to prosecute an 
evident injustice, I am one who will lift my hands and 
my voice against it. In such a cause, your success 
would be deplorable and victory hazardous. America, 
if she fell, would fall like the strong man. She would 
embrace thepihars of the state, and pull down the con- 
stitution along with her." 

35. The sentiments of this great statesman prevailed 
in parliament. The stamp-act was repealed ; but another 
act was passed declaring that " the legislature of Great 
Britain has authority to make laws to bind the colonies 
in all cases whatsoever." The merchants of London re- 
joiced at this repeal. They had felt the effects of the 
colonial non-importation agreements, and dreaded that 
still more injurious consequences would follow. 

36. But far greater were the rejoicings of the Ameri- 
cans. They had obtained the object for which they had 
contjended. They regarded the declaratory act as the 
mere reservation of wounded pride, and welcomed with 
transport the opportunity of again cherishing their former 
affection for the land of their fathers. The assemblies of 
several colonies voted their thanks to Mr. Pitt, and to 
others in England, who had supported their cause ; and 
that of Virgmia resolved to erect an obelisk to their 
honor, and a marble statue of the king, as a momoriai of 
gratitude. 



1767.1 REVOLUTION. 135 

37. By the people of New England and New York less 
joy was felt and less gratitude displayed. The laws im- 
posing duties on their trade were still in force. The 
courts of admiralty, sitting without juries, still retained 
jurisdiction of all revenue causes. Their repeated con- 
tests with their governors had weakened their attachment 
to the nation that appointed them, and confirmed their re- 
publican principles. They stiU remembered the past and 
entertained suspicions of the future, 

38. The very next year events occurred which justified 
these suspicions. A law of parliament, which remained 
unrepealed, directed that whenever troops should be 
marched into any of the colonies, quarters, rum, and various 
necessary articles, should be provided for them, at the 
expense of the colony. The assembly of New York 
refused obedience to this law, considering it an indirect 
mode of taxing them without their consent. To punish 
this disobedience, parliament immediately suspended the 
authority of the assembly. It was easily seen that noth- 
ing had been gained, if this power of suspension, for such 
a cause, existed, and could be exercised at pleasure. 

39. The alarm, occasioned by this act of despotic pow- 
er, was increased by a measure, which, under the aus- 
pices of a new ministry, was adopted in June, 1767. A 
duty was imposed by parliament on the importation into 
the colonies, of glass, tea, and other enumerated arti- 
cles, and provision was made for the appointment of com- 
missioners of the customs to be dependent solely on the 
crown. 

40. Early in the next year, the general court of Massa- 
chusetts, pursuing the same course as in 1764, addressed 
a letter to their agent in London, containing able arguments 
against those duties, and requested him to communicate 
the letter to the ministry. They also sent to the other 
colonial assemblies a circular letter, in which these argu- 
ments were repeated, and suggested the expediency of 
acting in concert, in all endeavors to obtain redress. 

41. These proceedings incensed and alarmed the min- 
istry. They feared that a union of the colonies would 
give them strength and confidence, and determined, if pos- 
sible, to prevent it. They instructed sir John Bernard, 
then governor of Massachusetts, to require the general 
court to rescind the vote directing the circular letter to be 
gent, and in case of refusal to dissolve it. The governor 

N 



136 REVOLUTION. [17Ca 

communicated these instructions to the house of represen- 
tatives, which, by a vote of ninety-two to seventeen, re- 
fused to rescind, and was accordingly dissolved. 

42. The attempt to intimidate did but strengthen oppo- 
sition. The non-importation agreements, which had been 
lately abandoned, were renewed, and more extensively 
adopted. The citizens of Boston met, and proposed that 
a convention of delegates from the several towns in the 
province, should be held at that place. Nearly every 
town. accordingly sent delegates. This convention, though 
it disclaimed all legal autiiorily, was regarded with the 
game respect as a legitimate assembly. Its proceedings 
were unimportant, but by its sessions in the metropolis of 
New England, the people became accustomed to pay def- 
erence to a body of men deriving all their authority from 
the instructions of their constituents. 

43. On so many occasions had the refractory spirit of 
the citizens of Boston been displayed, that general Gage, 
who was commander-in-chief of all the troops in the col- 
onies, was ordered to station a regiment in that tov^^n, as 
well to overawe the citizens, as to protect ths officers of 
the revenue in the discharge of their duty. Before the 
order was executed, the seizure of a s.'oop belonging to 
Mr. Hancock, a popular leader, occasioned a riot, in which 
those officers were insulted and beaten. The general, 
on receiving information of this event, sent two regiments 
instead of one, and on the first of October they arrived in 
tlie harbor. 

44. The ships that brought them, taking a station 
that commanded the whole town, lay with their broad- 
sides towards it, ready to fire should resistance be at- 
tempted. The troops, with loaded muskets and fixed 
bayonets, then landed ; and, the selectmen having refused 
to provide quarters, they took possession of the state- 
house. All the rooms, except one reserved for the coun- 
cil, were filled, and two pieces of cannon were placed near 
the principal entrance. 

45. With indignant and exasperated feelings, the people 
witnessed this threatening display of military force. They 
saw the hall of their venerated legislature polluted by the 
tread of foreign mercenaries. They .saw soldiers parading 
their streets, and guards mounted at the corners. They 
were challenged as they passed, and the unwelcome din 
of marshal music often disturbed their repose. They 



1769.] REVOLUTION. 137 

knew that intimidation was the object, and felt a stronger 
determination to resist than had before animated their 
bosoms. 

46. Resolutions, in the mean time, had been adopted in 
parliament, censuring, in the strongest terms, the conduct 
of the peojDle of Massachusetts, and directing the gover- 
nor to make strict inquiry, as to all treasons committed in 
that province, since the year 1767, in order that the per- 
sons most active in committing them might be sent to 
England for trial. 

47. These resolutions rendered it sufficiently evident 
that Great Britain had determined to adhere to the system 
of measures she had adopted. In May, they were taken 
into consideration by the house of burgesses of Virginia. 
In sundry resolutions, they reasserted the right of the 
colonies to be exempted from parhamentary taxation, and 
declared that seizing persons in the colonies, suspected of 
having committed crimes therein, and sending them be- 
yond sea to be tried, violated the rights of British subjects, 
as it deprived them of the inestimable right of being tried 
by a jury of the vicinage, and of producing witnesses on 
tneir trial. 

48. While these resolutions were under discussion, the 
house, apprehensive of an immediate dissolution should 
the subject of their deliberations be known to the gover- 
nor, closed their doors. The instant they were opened, a 
message was announced, requesting their attendance be- 
fore him. "Mr. Speaker," said he, " and gentlemen of 
the house of burgesses, I have heard of your resolves, 
and augur ill of their effects. You have made it my duty 
to dissolve you, and you are dissolved accordingly." 

49. This, like every previous measure of intimidation, 
excited to a still higher degree the spirit of opposition. 
The members assembled at a private house, elected their 
speaker to preside as moderator, and unanimously formed 
a non-importation agreement similar to those previously 
adopted at the north. In a few weeks, the example of 
Virginia was followed by most of the southern colonies. 

50. To the citizens of Boston, the troops quartered 
among them were a painful and irritating spectacle. 
Quarrels occurring daily between them and the populace, 
increased the animosity of each to ungovernable hatred. 
At length, on the evening of the fifth of March, an affi-ay 
took place in King-street, [since called State-street,] in 



138 REVOLUTION. [1770 

which a detachment of the troops commanded by captain 
Preston, after being insulted, pelted with snow-balls, and 
dared to fire, discharged their muskets upon the multi- 
tude, killing four persons and wounding others. 

51. The drums were instantly beat to arms, and sever- 
al thousand people assembled, who, enraged by the sight 
of the dead bodies of their fellow citizens, slain in a cause 
dear to them all, prepared to attack a larger detachment, 
which had been sent to support their comrades. In this 
state of excitement, they were addressed by lieutenant- 
governor Hutchinson, who appeared in the midst of them. 
Though personally obnoxious, he calmed their fury, and 
prevailed upon them to disperse until morning. 

52. The neirt day, captain Preston and his party were 
arrested and committed to prison. The citizens met and 
appointed a committee to demand the immediate removal 
of the troops from the town. At this meeting Samuel 
Adams, an inflexible patriot, was distinguished for his de- 
cision and boldness. After some hesitation, on the part of 
the commanding officer, they were sent to castle William, 
and were accompanied by several officers of the customs 
who dreaded the indignation of the people. 

53. Three days afterwards, the funeral of the deceased 
took place. It was conducted with great pomp, and unu- 
sual ceremonies, expressive of the public feeling. The 
shops were closed. The bells of Boston, Roxbury, and 
Charlestown were tolled. Four processions, moving from 
different parts of the town, met at the fatal spot, and pro- 
ceeded thence toward the place of interment. This united 
procession comprised an immense number of people on 
foot and in carriages, all displaying the deepest grief and 
indignation. The bodies were deposited together in the 
same vault. 

54. When the passions of the people had in some degree 
subsided, captain Preston and his soldiers were brou^tto 
trial. They were defended by John Adams and Josiah 
Quincy, two able lawyers, and distinguished leaders of 
the popular party. For nearly six weeks, the court were 
employed in examining witnesses, and in listening to the 
arguments of counsel. Captain Preston, not having or- 
dered his men to fire, was acquitted by the jury. Of the 
soldiers six were also acquitted, there being no positive 
testimony that they fired upon the people ; and two were 
acquitted of murder, as great provocation was offered, but 



1772.] REVOLUTION. 139 

found guilty of manslaughter — a result evincing the integ- 
rity of the jury and the magnanimity and uprightness of 
the counsel for the accused. 

55. While these events were occurring in the colonies, 
an attempt, supported by the prime minister, was made in 
England, to repeal all the laws for raising a revenue in 
America. The parliament, with a mixture of timidity and 
obstinacy, characteristic of the councils of the nation at 
that period, relinquished all the duties but that on tea, 
and this they unwisely retained to assert and display their 
eupremacy over the colonies. 

56. This partial repeal produced no change in the sen- 
timents of tne people. By rendering the contest more 
clearly a contest of principle, it sanctified their conduct 
in their own view, and ennobled it in that of the world. 
The non-importation agreements, however, were made to 
correspond with the altered law. Tea only was to be ex- 
cluded from the country; and this article of luxury was 
banished from the tables of all who were friendly to Amer- 
ican rights. 



CHAPTER XVI. 
REVOLUTION. 

The years 1771 and 1772 were not distinguished by any 
important event. The southern colonies, more agricultural 
than commercial, suffered but little from the operation of 
the laws ot trade, and, having mostly popular governors, 
continued tranquil. In Massachusetts, various causes 
contributed to increase the discontent which previously 
existed. Governor Hutchinson, having adjourned the 
general cou rt to Salem,refused, notwithstanding reiterated 
remonstrances, to permit them to return to Boston. He 
withdrew the provincial troops from the castle and sup- 
plied their place with regulars, as the British troops were 
then called. He declined receiving his salary from the 
colonial treasury, stating that his majesty had assigned to 
him, and also to the judges, permanent and honorable 
salaries, to be paid in Great Britain. These measures 
were highly unpopular, and especially the last, which re- 
leased those officers from all dependence on the people. 

2. To ascertain the sentiments of the inhabitants ; to 
n 



140 REVOLUTION. [1773. 

enlighten the remotest parts of the province by diffusing 
inteUigence, and distributing political essays ; and to pro- 
duce concert in measures, James Warren and Samuel 
Adams suggested and procured the appointment in every 
town, of committees of correspondence. By the agency 
of these, resolutions and addresses, sometimes inflamma- 
tory and always spirited, were speedily conveyed through 
the country, arousing the attention of all, and exhorting to 
perseverance in the cause of liberty. This example was 
soon after followed in other colonies ; and in 1773, at the 
suggestion of the Virginia assembly, standing committees 
were appointed, by the colonial legislatures, to correspond 
with each other. This institution, when more active oppo- 
sition became necessary, was found extremely useful. 

3. In this year, Dr. Franklin obtained in London a num- 
ber of original letters from governor Hutchinson, lieu- 
tenant-governor Oliver and others, to their correspon- 
dents in parliameut. In these letters, the opposition in 
Massachusetts was stated to be confined to a few factious 
individuals, who had been emboldened by the weakness of 
tlie means used to restrain them. Measures more vigorous 
were recommended : and the ministry were urged to take 
from the people and exercise themselves the power of ap- 

f)ointing counsellors and all colonial magistrates. These 
etters he transmitted to Boston. 

4. The source and occasion of the offensive proceedings 
of parliament were now disclosed. The passions of the 
people were highly inflamed, and the weight of popular 
mdignation fell upon the authors of these letters. The 
central committee of correspondence, at Boston, sent prin- 
ted copies, enclosed in a spirited ciicular, to all the towns 
in the province. And the general court, in several reso- 
lutions which were also published, animadverted with 
severity upon the misrepresentations and advice con- 
tained in the letters, thus increasing the irritation which 
their discovery and perusal had occasioned. 

5. Meanwhile the tea of the East India Company, not 
finding a market in America, accumulated in their ware- 
houses in England. Encouraged by the government, they 
resolved to export it on their own occount, and appointed 
consignees in the various seaports in the colonies. Those 
in Philadelphia were induced, by the disapprobation ex- 
pressed by the citizens, to decline their appointment. In 
New York spirited handbills were circulated, menacing 
with ruin every person who should be concerned in vending 



1773.] REVOLUTION. 141 

tea, and requiring the pilots, at their peril, not to conduct 
ships, loaded with that article, into the harbor. Intimidated 
by these proceedings, the captains of the tea ships, bound 
to those ports, returned with their cargoes to England. 

6. In Boston, inflammatory handbills were also circu- 
lated, and meetings held ; but the consignees, being most- 
ly relatives of the governor, and relying on his support, re- 
fused to decline their appointments. Their refusal enraged 
the citizens, and the community became agitated by the op- 
eration of highly excited passions. Meetings were more 
frequently held. The committees of correspondence were 
every where active. The people of the country exhorted 
their brethren in Boston to act worthy of their former 
character, worthy of " Sons of Liberty," upon whose con- 
duct, in the present emergency, every thing depended. 

7. On the 29th of November, a ship, laden with tea, 
cameintothe harbor. Notifications were immediately post- 
ed up, inviting every friend to his country to meet forth- 
with and concert united resistance to the arbitrary meas- 
ures of Britain. A crowded meeting was held, and a 
resolution adopted, " that the tea should not be landed, 
that no duty should be paid, and that it should be sent 
back in the same vessel." A watch was also organized 
to prevent it from being secretly brought on shore. 

y. A short time was then allowed for the captain to 
preprare to return home with his cargo. Governor Hutch- 
inson refused to grant him the requisite permission to 
pass the castle. Other vessels, laden with tea, arrived. 
The agitation increased, and on the 18th of December, the 
inhabitants of Boston and the adjoinig towns assembled to 
determine what course should be pursued. At this im- 
portant meeting, Josiah Quincy, desirous that the conse- 
quences of the measures to be adopted should be first se- 
riously contemplated, thus addressed his fellow citizens. 

9. " It is not, Mr. Moderator, the spirit that vapors 
within these walls that will sustain us in the hour of need. 
The proceedings of this day will call forth events which 
will make a very different spirit necessary for our salvation. 
Whoever supposes that shouts and hosannas will termi- 
nate our trials, entertains a childish fancy. We must be 
grossly ignorant of the value of the prize for which we 
contend ; we must be equally ignorant of the power of 
those who have combined against us ; we must be blind 
to that inveterate malice and insatiable revenge which 
actuate our enemies, abroad and in our bosom, toliope that 



142 REVOLUTION. [1774. 

we shall end this controversy without tlie sharpest coflicts 
—or to flatter ourselves that popular resolves, popular 
harangues, and popular acclamations, will vanquish our 
foes. Let us consider the issue; let us look to the end; 
let us weigh and deliberate before we advance to those 
measuses which must bring on the most trying and terri- 
ble struggle this country ever saw." 

10. In the evening the question was put, " Do you abide 
by your former resolution to prevent the landing of the tea ]" 
The vote was unanimous in the affirmative. Application 
was again made to the governor for a pass. After a short 
delay, his refusal was communicated to the assembly. 
Instantly a person disguised as an Indian, gave the war 
whoop from the gallery. At this signal, the people rushed 
out of the house and hastened to the wharves. About 
twentv persons, in the dress of Mohawks, boarded the 
vessels, and, protected by the crowd on shore, broke open 
three hundred and forty-two chests of tea, and emptied 
their contents into the ocean. Their purpose accomplished, 
the multitude returned without tumult to their habitations. 

11. These proceedings excited the anger of parliament 
and the displeasure of the British nation. Punishment, 
not a change of measures, was resolved upon. An act, 
closing the port of Boston, and removing the custom-house 
to Salem, was passed, and was to continue in force until 
compensation should be made for the tea destroyed ; an- 
other act was passed, taking from the general court and 
giving to the crown the appointment of counsellors ; and 
general Gage was made governor in the place of Mr. 
Hutchinson. 

12. Intelligence of the Boston port bill occasioned a 
meeting of the citizens of the town ; they were sensible 
that " the most trying and terrible struggle" was indeed 
now approaching, but felt unawed by its terrors. They 
sought not to shelter themselves from the storm by sub- 
mission, but became more resolute as it increased. They 
declared the act to be unjust and inhuman, and invited 
their brethren in the other colonies to unite with them in 
a general non-importation agreement. 

13. A similar spirit pervaded and animated the whole 
country. Addresses from the adjacent towns, and from 
every part of the continent, were sent to the citizens of 
Boston, applauding their resolution, exhorting them to 
perseverance,and assuring them that they were considered 
as suffering in a common cause. In Virginia, the first day 



1774] REVOLUTION. 143 

♦ of June, when the law begran to operate, was observed as a 
public and solemn fast. With devout feelings, the divine 
interposition was implored, in all the churches, to avert the 
evils of civil war, and to give to the people one heart and 
one mind, firmly to oppose every invasion of their liberty. 

14. The same day was observed, with similar solemnity, 
in most of the other colonies ; and thus, an opportunity 
was presented to the ministers o^ the gospel to dispense 
political instruction, to paint, in vivid colors, the sufferings 
of the citizens of Boston, and to warn their congregations, 
that, should Great Britain succeed in her scTiemes, the 
danger to their religious would be as great as to their civil 
privileges ; that atamesubmmission to the will of parlia- 
ment would inevitably be followed by bishops, tithes, test 
acts, and ecclesiastical tribunals. 

15. The sufferings of the inhabitants of Boston were 
indeed severe. Nearly all were compelled to be idle. 
Many, by loss of employment, lost their sole means of 
support. In this extremity, contributions in money and 
provisions were forwarded to them from all the colonies, 
«is proofs of sympathy in their distresses, and of approba- 
tion of their having met and manfully withstood the first 
Bhock of arbitrary power. 

16. Gradually and constantly had the minds and feelings 
of the Americans been preparing for this important crisis. 
That enthusiastic patriotism which elevates the soul above 
all considerations of interest or danger had now become 
their ruling passion. The inhabitants of Salem spurned 
advantages to be derived from the punishment inflicted on 
a sister town, for its zeal in a sacred and common cause. 
" We must," said they, in a remonstrance to the governor 
"be dead to every idea of justice, lost to all feelings of 
humanity, could we indulge one thought to seize on 
wealth, and raise our fortunes from the ruin of our suffer- 
ing neighbors." 

17. In June, the general court assembled at Salem, and 
among their first acts were, the recommendation of a 
continental congress, which had been suggested by the 
committee of correspondence in Virginia, and the choice 
of delegates to attend it. While engaged, with closed 
doors, in this business, governor Gage, who had received 
a private intimation of their purposes, dissolved the court 
bv a proclamation which was read upon the steps. In 
all the other colonies, except Georgia, delegates were also 
chosen. 



144 REVOLUTION. [1774. 

18. On the 5th of September, these delegates met at 
Philadelphia. Peyton Kandolph, of Virginia, was unani- 
mously elected President, and Charles Thompson, secre- 
tary. It was determined that each colony should have but 
one vote, whatever might be the number of its deputies, 
and that all their transactions, except such as they might 
resolve to publish, should be kept invioably secret. 

19. Resolutions were then .adopted, expressmg the 
sympathy of congress in the sufferings of their countrymen 
in Massachusetts, and highly approving the wisdom and 
fortitude of their conduct. They also resolved that the 
importation of goods from Great Britain should cease on 
the first day of the succeeding December, and all exports 
to that country on the 10th of September, 1775, unless 
American grievances should be sooner redressed. These 
resolutions possessed no legal force, but never were laws 
more faithfully observed. 

20. In other resolutions, they enumerated certain rights, 
which, as men and English subjects, " they claimed, de- 
manded, and insisted on ;" and recounted numerous viola- 
tions of those rights by parliament. Addresses to the 
people of Great Britain, to the inhabitants of Canada, and 
to their constituents, were prepared and publihsed ; and an 
affectionate petition to the king was agreed upon. 

21. In these able and important state papers, the claims, 
principles, and feelings of their constituents are clearly 
and eloquently set forth. They glow with the love of 
liberty; they display a determination, too firm to be shaken, 
to defend and preserve it at every hazard ; they contain 
the strongest professions of attachment to the mother 
country, and of loyalty to the king. A desire of indepen- 
dence is expressly disavowed. "Place us," says the 
congress, "in the situation we were in at the close of 
the last war, and our former harmony will be restored." 
" We ask," say they in their petition, " but for peace, 
liberty, and safety. We wish not a diminution of the 
prerogative, nor do we solicit the grant of any new right 
m our favor. Your royal authority over us, and our con- 
nection with Great Britain, we shall always carefully and 
zealously endeavor to support and maintain." 

22. These papers, going forth to the world, made the 
cause of the colonies known throughout Europe, and con- 
ciliated those who had embraced liberal principles in 
politics, or felt displeasure at the pride and haughtiness ol 
Britain. Their tone of manly energy, and the knowledge 



1774] REVOLUTION. 145 

they displayed of political science, excited universal ap« 
plause and admiration. 

23. "When your lordships," said Mr. Pitt, in the 
British senate, "have perused the papers transmitted to 
us from America; when you consider the dignity, the 
firmness, and the wisdom, with which the Americans 
have acted, you cannot but respect their cause. History, 
my lords, has been my favorite study; and in the cele- 
brated writing^s of antiquity I have often admired the 
patriotism of Greece and Rome ; but, my lords, 1 must 
declare and avow, tiiat in the master states of the world, 
1 know not the people nor the senate, who, in such a 
complication of diiticult ciscumstances, can stand in pref- 
erence to the delegates of America assembled, in general 
coiigresrf, it Philadelphia. I trust that it is obvious to 
your lordships, that all attempts to impose servitude upon 
such men, to establish despotism over such a mighty con- 
tinental nation, must be vain, must be futile." 

24. In America, the proceedings of congreBS were read 
with enthusiasm and veneration. Their reasonings con- 
firmed the conviction, strongly felt by nearly the whole 
people, of the perfect justice of their cause. In the ad- 
dress to themselves, they were admonished " to extend 
their views to mournful events, and to be in all respects 
prepared for every contingency." Great efforts were 
consequently made to provide arms and all the munitions 
of war. Independent companies were formed ; voluntary 
trainings were frequent; the old and the young, the rich 
and the poor, devoted their hours of amusement and of 
leisure, to exercises calculated to fit them to act a part in 
the anticipated conflict. The country was ahve with the 
bustle of preparation, and in every countenance could be 
read the expectation of important transactions, in which 
all must participate. 

25. Complete unanimity, however, did not exist. Some 
of the late emigrants from England, the most of those 
who held offices by her appointment, many whose timidity 
magnified her power, clung to her authority, and as the 
crisis approached, declared themselves her adherents. 
These were denominated tories ; the friends of liberty, 
whigs — names by which the advocates of arbitrary power, 
and the friends of constitutional hberty, were distinguished 
in England. 

26. General Gage, who had been recently apointed 
governor of Massachusetts, withdrew, from other posts on 



146 REVOLUTION. [1775 

the continent, several regiments of troops, and encamped, 
tnemon the common, in Boston. He afterwards erected 
fortifications on the Neck, a narrow isthmus which unites 
the town with the main land : and on the night of the first 
of September, he seized the powder deposited in the pro- 
vincial arsenal at Cambridge. 

27. The people, meanwhile, were not idle. They ap- 
pointed delegates to a provincial congress, which as- 
eembled in the beginning ot October. Mr. Hancock was 
chosen president, and the delegates resolved, that, for the 
defence of the province, a militaiy force, to consist of one 
fourth of the militia, should be organized and stand ready 
to march at a minute's warning ; that money should be 
raised to purchase military stores ; and they appointed a 
committee of supplies, and a committee of safety, to sit 
during the recess. 

28. The more southern provinces, particularly Pennsyl- 
vania, Virginia, and Maryland, diplayed the same love of 
liberty and determination to resist ; provincial congresses 
were convened, committees appointed, and resolutions 

Sassed, designed and adapted to animate those who, in 
lassachusetts, stood in the post of danger, and to excite 
in all hearts that devotion to country which is alone ca- 
pable of sustaining a people in an arduous struggle with 
a superior foe. 

2H. In the parliament of Great Britain, American 
affaiis came on to be discussed, in the beginning of the 
year 1775. Several plans of conciliation were Drought 
forward by the opposition and rejected ; but one, proposed 
by lord North, the prime minister, was adopted. The 
purport of it was, that if any colony would engage to 
contribute a sum satisfactory to his majesty, for the com- 
mon defence, the parliament would forbear to tax that 
colony so long as the contribution was punctually paid. 
This plan conceded nothing. To weaken the colonies by 
dividing them, was so evidently the object, that all indig- 
nantly spurned the proffered terms. 

30. In connection with this conciliatory proposition, as 
it was called, measures of punishment and intimidation 
were adopted. The northern colonies were prohibited 
from fishing on the banks of Newfoundland, additional 
restrictions were imijosed upon the trade of all of them, 
and several ships of the line and ten thousand troops, 
were sent to America. 

31. In the debates in parliament, the friends of the 



1775. J REVOLUTIONARY WAR, 147 

colonies, although few, were animated in their praise and 
eloquent in their defence. The adherents of the ministry 
indulged in the grossest abuse and ridicule. The Ameri- 
cans, they said, were naturally cowards, habitually lazy, 
and constitutionally feeble ; they were incapable of disci- 
pline; and a small force would be sufficient to conquer 
them. This ignorance of their character, which was 
general throughout England,doubtless caused the ministry 
to persist in measures which, had their information been 
correct, they would never have ventured to undertake. 

32. On the evening of the 18th of April, general Gage 
despatched from Boston a body of eight hundred troops to 
destroy a quantity of provisions and military stores de- 

f)osited, by the committee of supphes, at Concord. Intel- 
igence of this movement was sent to Lexington and 
Concord a few hours before the troops embarked. The 
ringing of bells and the firing of signal guns brought the 
minute-men together. Early the next morning, those of 
Lexington assembled on the green near the meetmg-house. 
A few minutes afterwards, the advanced body of the reg- 
ulars approached within musket shot. Major Pitcairn, 
riding forward, exclaimed, " Disperse, you rebels ; throw 
down your arms and disperse". Not bein^ instantly 
obeyed, he discharged his pistol and ordered nis men to 
fire. They fired and killed several. The militia dispersed; 
but the firing continued. In the whole, eight were killed, 
some of whom were shot in their concealment behind the 
fences. 

33. The detachment proceeded to Concord. The min- 
ute-men of that town had also assembled ; but, being few 
in number, they retired on the approach of the regulars. 
These entered the town and destroyed the provisions and 
stores. The minute-men were reinforced, and advanced 
again <"owards the regulars. A skirmish ensued, in which 
captain Davis, of Acton was killed. The British troops 
were compelled to retreat, leaving behind them several 
killed and wounded. 

34. The whole country was now in arms, and the troops 
retreated with precipitation. The militia not only pressed 
upon their rear, but placed themselves singly behind trees 
and stone walls, and, from these secure coverts, fired upon 
them as they passed. At Lexington they met a reinforce- 
ment under lord Percy, which general Gage had despatch- 
ed on receiving information of the occurrences there in 
the morning. 

O 



148 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

. 35. After resting a moment, the whole body proceeded 
towards Boston. In their progress they were more and 
more harrassed by the provincials, whose number hourly 
increased,and who became in proportion more adventurous. 
Having an intimate knowledge of all the roads, they could 

{)ursue with less fatigue, and meet the enemy unexpected- 
y at the various windings; and being all experienced 
marksmen, their shots seldom failed of effect. At sunset, 
the regulars, almost overcome with fatigue, passed along 
Charlestown Neck, and found, on Bunker'ti Hill, a place 
of security and repose. 

36. In this engagement, sixty-five of the royal forces 
were killed, one hundred and eighty wounded, and twenty- 
eight made prisoners. Of the provincials, fifty were killed, 
thirty-four were wounded, and four were missing. The 
killed were lamented and honored as the first martyrs in 
the cause of liberty. In the various sections of country 
from which they came, hatred of Great Britain took still 
deeper root ; and New England, connected more than any 
other part of the world, as one great family, by the closest 
intimacy of all the inhabitants, universally felt the depri- 
vation with a mixed feeling of sorrow and rage. 

37. Intelligence of the battle of Lexington spread rap- 
idly through Massachusetts, and the adjoining provinces. 
The farmer left his plough in the furrow, the mechanic 
dropped the utensil in his hand, and seizing their arms, all 
hastened to the environs of Boston. In a few days, a large 
army was assembled, which, under the command of gen- 
eral Ward, of Massachusetts, and general Putnam,of Con- 
necticut, closely invet^ted the town, and alarmed general 
Gage for the safety of his garrison.. 

38. In the remoter provinces, the intelligence was con- 
sidered of solemn and alarming import. Tne great drama 
was opened, and the part which each should take must 
immediately be chosen. By many a resort to arms had 
never been anticipated. To them the decision was more 
painful; but all the colonies, except Georgia, adopted at 
once the heroic resolution to unite their fortunes with 
those of New England. 

39. Connecticut had poured forth her full proportion of 
hardy yeomanry to man the lines around Boston; but 
several, who remained at home, conceived the project of 
surprising Ticonderoga, a fortified post on the western 
shore of lake Champlain, and commanding the entrance 
into Canada. They communicated their design to colonel 



1775.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 149 

Ethan Allen, of Vermont, who, upon their arrival at Cas- 
tleton with forty men, met them there at the head of two 
hundred and thirty Green Mountain boys. The next day, 
captain Benedict Arnold, of Connecticut, who, upon the 
first alarm, had hastened to Boston, arrived from that 
place,having conceived the same project, and been author- 
ized, by the committee of safety in Massachusetts, to un- 
dertake it. 

40. Allen and Arnold, attheheadof the Green Mountain 
boys, hastened to Ticonderoga, and the remainder of the 
party to Skeensborough. On the night of the ninth of 
May, about eighty, all that the boats could carry, crossed 
the lake, aud at dawn of day, landed near the fortress. 
They advanced to the gateway. A sentinel snapped his 
fusee at colonel Allen and retreated. The Americans, 
following, found the commander in bed. Colonel Allen 
demanded the surrender of the fort. " By what authority 
do you demand it]" "In the name," replied Allen, "of 
the Great Jehovah and the Continental Congress." The 
British officer, having but fifty men, saw that resistance 
would be vain, and agreed to surrender. 

41. When the remainder of the party arrived, they were 
despatched, under colonel Seth Warner, to take posses- 
sion of Crown Point; and Arnold, hastily manning a schoon- 
er, sailed to capture a sloop of war lying at the outlet of 
the lake. These two expeditions, as well as that against 
Skeensborough, were successful; and thus was obtained, 
without bloodshed, the command of those important pasts, 
together with more than one hundred pieces of cannon, 
and other munitions of war. The unexpected news of 
this brilliant success imparted high courage and animation 
to the Americans. 

42. Most of the militia, who had repaired to Boston, 
returned soon after to their homes, but a sufficient number 
remained, posted near the Neck, to prevent the British 
from leaving the town by land. Between detachments 
from these and parties of regulars, v/ho were often sent to 
collect forage on the islands in the harbor, frequent skir- 
mishes took place, in most of which the Americans were 
successful. 

43. In the beginning of June, several transports, filled 
with troops, commanded by generals Howe, Chnton, and 
Burgoyne, arrived from England, and general Gage began 
to act with more decision and vigor. He issued a procla- 
mation declaring those in arms, and all who aided them, 



150 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775 

rebels and traitors, and threatened to punish them as such 
unless they immediately returned to their peaceful occu- 
pations. He promised his majesty's pardon to all who 
should in this manner give proof of their repentance and 
amendment, excepting Samuel Adams and John Hancock, 
whose crimes, he alleged, were too flagitious to admit of 
pardon. 

44. This proclamation, and the arrival of the troops, far 
from dismaying, aroused the people to greater activity and 
watchfulness. Again the militia assembled and surround- 
ed Boston. Unwilling to endure the inconvenience and dis- 
grace of this confinement, general Gage made preparations 
to penetrate, with a portion of his army, into the country. 
To prevent this, the provincial generals resolved to occupy 
Bunker's Hill, an eminence in Charlestown, situated on a 
peninsula, that approaches near to Boston. 

45. On the evening of the 16th of June, a thousand men, 
under the command of colonel Prescott, of Massachusetts, 
colonel Stark,from New Hampshire,and captain Knowlton, 
from Connecticut, were despatched on this service. They 
were conducted, by mistake, to Breed's Hill, which was 
nearer to the water and to Boston, than Bunker's. At 
twelve o'clock they began to throw up entrenchments, 
and by dawn of day had completed a redoubt eight rods 
square. As soon as they were discovered, they were fired 
upon from a ship of war and several floating batteries ly- 
ing near, and from a fortification in Boston opposite there- 
doubt. The Americans, nevertheless, encouraged by gen- 
eral Putnam, who often visitedthemon the hill, continued to 
labor until they had finished a slightbreastwork extending 
from the redoubt eastward to the water. And in the morn- 
ing they received a reinforcement of five hundred men. 

46. The temerity of the provincials astonished and 
incensed general Gage, and he determined to drive them 
immediately from their position. About noon, a body of 
three thousand regulars, commanded by general Howe, 
left Boston in boats, and landed in Charlestown, at the 
extreme point of the peninsula. Generals Clinton and 
Burgoyne took their station on an eminence in Boston, 
commanding a distinct view of the hill. The spires of 
the churches, the roofs of the houses, and all the heights 
in the neighborhood, were covered with people, waiting, 
in dreadful anxiety, to witness the approaching battle. 

47. The regulars forming at the place of landing, 
marched slowly up the hill, Halting frequently to allow 



1775.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 151 

time to the artillery to demolish the works. While ad^ 
vancing-, the village of Charlestown, containing about four 
hundred houses, was set on fire by order of general Gage. 
The flames ascended to a lofty height, presenting a sublime 
and mae-nificent spectacle. The Americans reserved their 
fire untu the British were within ten rods of the redoubt ; 
then taking a steady aim, they began a furious discharge. 
Entire ranks of the assailants fell. The enemy halted 
and returned the fire ; but that from the redoubt continu- 
ing incessant and doing great execution, they retreated in 
haste and disorder down the hill, some even taking refuge 
in their boats. 

48. The officers were seen running hither and thither, 
collecting, arranging and addressing their men, whowero 
at length induced again to ascend the hill. The Ameri- 
cans now reserved their fire until the enemy had approached 
even nearer than before, when a tremendous volley was at 
once poured upon them. Terrified by the carnage around 
them, they again retreated with precipitation ; and such 
was the panic, that general Howe was left almost alone 
on the hillside, his troops having deserted him, and nearly 
every officer around him being killed. 

49. At this moment, general Clinton, who had observed 
from Boston the progress of the battle, feeling that British 
honor was at stake, hastened with a reinforcement to the 
assistance of his countrymen. By his exertions, the troops 
were a third time rallied, and were compelled by the offi- 
cers, who marched behind them with drawn swords, to 
advance again towards the Americans. The fire from the 
ships and batteries was redoubled, and a few pieces of 
cannon had been so placed as to rake the interior of the 
breastwork from end to end. 

50. The provincials, having expended their ammunition, 
awaited in silence the approach of the regulars. The 
latter entered the redoubt. The former, having no 
bayonets, defended themselves, for a short time, with the 
butt end of their muskets. From this unequal contest 
they were soon compelled to retire. As they retreated 
over Charlestown Neck, the fire from the floating batte- 
ries was incessant ; but, providentially, a few only were 
killed. The enemy had sustained too much injury to 
think of pursuit. 

51. In this desperate and bloody conflict, the royal forces 
consisted, as has been stated, of three thousand men, and 
the provincials of but fifteen hundred. Of the former, one 



152 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

thousand and fifty-four were killed and wounded ; of the 
latter, four hundred and fifty-three. This disparity of 
loss, the steadiness and bravery displayed by their recent, 
undiciplined levies, occaioned among the Americans the 
hiffhest exultation, and, in their view, more than counter- 
balanced the loss of position. If this is a British victory, 
how many such victories, they triumphantly asked, can 
their army achieve without ruin 7 

52. But deep and heart-felt sorrow was intermingled 
with their rejoicings. Among the killed was doctor 
Warren, a patriot, who, at an early period, had espoused 
with warmth the cause of freedom ; who had displayed 
great intrepidity in several skirmishes ; had four days be- 
fore been elected major-general ; and kad on the fatal day, 
hastened to the field of battle, to serve his country as a 
volunteer. For his many virtues, his elegant manners, his 
generous devotion to his country, his high attainments in 
political science, he was beloved and respected by his re- 
publican associates ; and to him their affections pointed as 
a future leader, in a cause dear to their hearts, and inti- 
mately connected with their glory. 

53. In the midst of these military transactions, a conti- 
nental congress assembled at Philadelphia. It comprised 
delegates from twelve colonies, all of whom were anima- 
ted with a detei mined spirit of opposition to parliamentary 
taxation. A majority, however, had not yet formed the 
hardy resolution to separate from the mother country, and 
aim at independence. The measures partook of the oppo- 
site feelings of the members. Mr. Hancock, the proscribed 
patriot, was chosen president ; they resolved that another 
Jiumble petition for redress of grievances, should be pre- 
sented to the king ; but they also resolved that means of 
defence should be immediately prepared, and proceeded 
to the choice of officers to command their united forces. 

54. To induce the friends of liberty in the southern 
provinces to embark more warmly in the cause of resisi- 
ance, the northern delegates determined to give their 
suffrages for a commander-in-chief to a person residing 
in that quarter. Fortunately one was found eminently 
qualified for the office. By unanimous vote of the congress, 
George Washington, then present as delegate from Vir- 
ginia, was elected. He had served, with high reputation, 
in the late war with France ; was distinguished in his 
native province for his military knowledge, his great 
wealth, the dignity of his deportment, his unsuspected 



1775.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 153 

integrity, and his ardent attachment to the interests of his 
country. 

55. The president, addressing him in his seat, announced 
to him the choice which the congress had made. Wash- 
ingcon declared his acceptance with a diffidence whicn 
gave to his great talents a brighter lustre ; and assured 
congress that, as no pecuniary compensation could have 
tempted him to accept the office, at the sacrifice of his 
domestic ease and happiness, he would receive no pay, and 
would ask only the remuneration of his expenses. Arte- 
mas Ward, Charles Lee, Philip Schuyler and Israel Put- 
nam, were then chosen major-generals,and Horatio Gates 
adj utant-general. Lee had lately held the office of colonel, 
and Gates that of major in the British army. 

56. Congress also resolved that, for defraying the ex- 
penses which might be incurred, bills of credit, or paper 
money, to the amount of three millions of dollars, should 
be issued, and pledged the colonies for their redemption. 
A solemn and dignified declaration, setting forth the 
causes and necessity of taking up arms, was prepared to 
be published to the army in orders, and to the people from 
the pulpit. After particularizing the aggressions of Great 
Britain, with the energy of men feehng unmerited injury, 
they exclaim : 

57. "But why should we enumerate our injuries in de- 
tail ? By one statute it is declared that parliament can of 
right make laws to bind us in all cases whatsoever. What 
is to defend us against so enormous, so unlimited a power ) 
Not a single man of those who assume it, was chosen by 
us, or is subject to our control or influence ; but, on the 
contrary, they are all of them exempt from the operation 
of such laws, and an American revenue, if not diverted 
from the ostensible purposes for which it is raised, would 
actually lighten their own bu.rdens, in proportion as it in- 
creases ours. We saw the misery to which such despot- 
ism would reduce us. We, for ten years, incessantly and 
ineffectually besieged the throne as supplicants ; we rea- 
soned, we remonstrated with parliament in the most mild 
and decent language. 

58. "We are now reduced to the alternative of choosing 
an unconditional submission to the will of irritated minis- 
ters, or resistance by force. The latter is our .choice. 
We have counted the cost of this contest, and find nothing 
so dreadful as voluntary slavery. Honor, justice, and 
humanity forbid us tamely to surrender that freedom which 



154 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

we received from our gallant ancestors, and which our 
innocent posterity have a right to receive from us. We 
cannot endure the infamy and guilt of resigning succeeding 
generations to that wretchedness which inevitably awaits 
mem if we basely entail hereditary bondage upon them. 

59. " Our cause is just ; our union is perfect. Our 
internal resources are great ; and, if necessary, foreign 
assistance is undoubtedly attainable. We gratefully ac- 
knowledge, as a signal instance of the divme favor to- 
wards us, that his providence would not permit us to be 
called into this severe controversy, until we were grownup 
to our present strength, had been previously exercised in 
warlike operations, and possessed the means of defend- 
ing ourselves. 

60. "With hearts fortified by these animating reflections, 
we most solemnly, before God and the world, declare, that 
exerting the utmost energy of those powers, which our 
beneficent Creator hath graciously bestowed, the arms 
we have been compelled by our enemies to assume, we 
will, in defiance of every hazard, with un abating firmness 
and perseverance, employ for preservation of our liber- 
ties, being, with one mind, resolved to die freemen rather 
than to live slaves." 

61. Soon after his election, general Washington, accom- 
panied by general Lee, and several other gentlemen, set 
out for the camp at Cambridge. In every place through 
which he passed, he received the highest honors. A com- 
mittee from the provincial congress of Massachusetts, met 
him at Springfield, and conducted him to head-quarters, 
where another committee presented him a respectful and 
affectionate address. 

62. He found the army, consisting of fourteen thousand 
men, posted on the heights around Boston, forming a line 
which extended from Koxbury on the right, to the river 
Mystic on the left, a distance of twelve miles. The 
troops were ardently devoted to the cause of hberty, but 
destitute of discipline, averse to subordination, without 
powder, without tents, and without most of the conveni- 
ences usually provided for regular armies. 

63. With the assistance of general Gates, he introduced 
some degree of regularity ana system. Several barrels of 
powder were obtained from New Jersey,and captain Manly, 
commander of the privateer Lee, captured an ordnance 
ship, containing arms, ammunition, and a complete assort- 
ment of such working tools as were most needed in the 



1775.1 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 155 

American camp. This providential capture was followed 
by others, which supphed the most pressing wants of the 
army, enabled it to continue, through the year, the block- 
ade of Boston, and contributed greatly to distress the en- 
emy, for whose use the cargoes were destined. 

64. Events occurring this year, in the southern colonies, 
still farther weakened the attachment of the people to 
Great Britain. In Virginia, lord Dunmore, the governor, 
seized, by night, some powder belonging to the colony, and 
conveyed it on board a British ship in James river. Intel- 
hgence of this transaction reaching Patrick Henry, he 
placed himself at the head of the independent companies 
m his vicinity, and marched towards the seat of govern- 
ment, with the avowed purpose of obtaining, by force, 
restitution of the powder, or its value. He was met by a 
messenger, who paid him the value of the powder, when 
he and the militia returned to their homes. 

65. Alarmed by this display of spirit and patriotism, 
lord Dunmore fortified his palace. From this castle, ho 
issued a proclamation, charging Henry and his associates 
with rebellious practices, which offended the people, who 
highly approved their conduct. Other causes increasing 
the popular ferment, he quitted his palace, and repaired 
to a ship of war then lying at Yorktown. 

66. in November, he issued another proclamation, offer- 
ing freedom to those slaves belonging to rebel masters, 
who should join his majesty's troops at Yorktown. Several 
hundred, inconsequence, repaired to that place. A body 
of militia immediately assembled, and, while posted near 
IJie city, were attacked with great bravery, by the regulars, 
royahsts, and negroes. The militia, repelling the attack 
with equal bravery, gained a decisive victory. Lord Dun- 
more then evacuated the city, and, followed by his white 
and black forces, sought refuge on board the ships of his 
majesty. Soon after, Norfolk, set on fire by his order, was 
mostly consumed ; and its destruction was completed by 
the provincials, to prevent the enemy from deriving sup- 
plies from that quarter. 

67. The governor of North Carolina, following the ex- 
ample of lord Dunmore, fortified his palace at Newbern. 
This caused a commotion among the people,which induced 
him to retire on board a ship in the harbor. While there, 
he made zealous exertions to organize a party in favor of 
the royal cause ; and a band of Scotch Highlanders, set- 
tled in the interior country, listened to his persuasions. On 



156 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

their march to the sea coast, they were met by a party of 
mihtia, who attacked and dispersed them. This early 
victory secured the predominance of the whigs, and crushed 
the hopes and spirits of the tories. 

68. South Carohna had always, with great unanimity 
and zeal, resisted parliamentary taxation ; and soon after 
the battle of Lexington, the governor, lord William Camp- 
bell, apprehensive of danger to his person, retired from 
the province. In July, Georgia chose delegates to the 
continental congress, increasing to thirteen the number 

of the UNITED COLONIES. 

69. The province of New York contained many warm 
advocates for freedom; but its capital had so long been 
the head-quarters of the British army in America, that 
many of the principal inhabitants, having contracted inti- 
mate relations witli British officers, had become devoted 
to the royal cause. The assembly, acting under their influ- 
ence, declined to choose delegates to the continental con- 
gress held in May, 1775; but the people, a majority of 
whom were actuated by diiferent feelings, elected a pro- 
vincial congress, by whom those delegates were choseji. 

70. When intelligence of the battle of Lexington reach- 
ed the city, captain Sears, an active and intrepid leader of 
the "sons of liberty," took effectual measures to prevent 
vessels bound to ports in America, where the royal cause 
prevailed, from sailing. An association was also formed, 
consisting of one thousand of the principal inhabitants, 
who bound themselves to assist in carrying into execution 
whatever measure might be recommended, by the conti- 
nental congress, to prevent the execution of the oppressive 
acts of the British parliament. 

71. The ministry, desirous of retaining in obedience 
this important colony, appointed Mr. Tryon to be governor 
over iti He had before filled the same office ; was a man 
of address, and greatly beloved by the people. He came 
fully empowerea to gain adherents by dispensing promises 
and money at his discretion. The success of his intrigues 
alarmed congress, who, having particular reference to him, 
recommended that "all persons whose going at large might 
endanger the liberties of America, should be arrested and 
secured." Gaining early intelligence of this, he also 
Bought refuge on board a ship in the harbor. 

72. Although the autumn of 1775 was not distinguished 
by any brilliant exploit, yet the time of congress, and of 
tlie commander-in-chief, was not unprofitably employed. 



1776.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 157 

Constant attention was paid to the discipline of the troops ; 
arrangements were made to obtain a supply of military 
stores ; the building and equipment of a naval force was 
commenced; two expeditions were organized and des- 
patched against Canada, one by the way of lake Champlain, 
the other' of the river Kennebec; and general Lee, with 
twelve hundred volunteers from Connecticut, was directed 
to proceed to New York, and, with the aid of the inhab- 
itants, fortify the city and the highlands. 

73. The abolition of all legal authority in the colonies 
was an evil for which, though less than had been antici- 
pated, it was yet expedient to provide a remedy. New 
Hampshire applied to congress for advice on this subject. 
A favorable opportunity was thus presented to the zealous 
patriots in congress, to propose a remedy for the evil, 
which should, at the same time, exhibit in practice the 
fundamental principle of their political creed, that all 
legitimate authority must be derived from the people ; and 
should also prepare the way for their darling object, a 
declaration of independence. 

74. A resolution was introduced, recommending that a 
convention of representatives, freely elected by the people 
of that colony, should be called, for the purpose of estab- 
lishing such a form of government as they might deem 
proper. It was warmly opposed by those members who 
were yet desirous of an accommodation with the mother 
country. An amendment being made, providing tjjlat the 
government established should continue in force no longer 
than the existing contest with Great Britain, the resolu- 
tion passed. Representatives were accordingly chosen, 
who, on the 5th of January, 1776, adopted a written con- 
stitution, acknowledging no source of power but the peo- 
ple. In other colonies, the same course was soon after- 
wards pursued. 

75. A transaction, displaying the vindictive feelings of 
the British, occurred in October. The ministry had issued 
orders to the officers of the navy to proceed, as in the case 
of actual rebellion, against all the colonial seaports ac- 
cessible to ships of war, which should discover symptoms 
of attachment to the cause of liberty. Falmouth, a flour- 
ishing town in Massachusetts, having given some particu- 
lar offence, its destruction, under color of these orders, 
was resolved on, and captain Mowatt, with four ships, was 
despatched on that service. 

76. The citizens made an effort, by negotiation, to avert 



158 REVOLUTIONARY WAR, [1776. 

their ruin ; but as the terms which were offered could not 
be accepted without dishonor, they were at once rejected. 
The bombardment immediately commenced, the town was 
set on fire, and four hundred buildings reduced to ashes. 
This wanton act of devastation was strongly reprobated 
throughout America, and served to inflame, rather than to 
intimidate, the people. The town has since been rebuilt, 
its name changed to Portland, and it is now the capital of 
Maine. 

77. As the year 1775 drew near to a close, the condition 
of the army, employed in the blockade of Boston, engaged 
the attention of congress. A speedy adjustment of the 
dispute being at first expected, the men had been enlisted 
to serve only until the first of J anuary. No prospect now 
appeared of an immediate accommodation. It was there- 
fore resolved to form a new army, to consist of twenty 
thousand men, and to be raised, as far as practicable, from 
the troops then in service. Unfortunately it was deter- 
mined, that the enlistments should be made for one year 
only, an error the consequences of which were afterwards 
very severely felt. 

78. It was supposed that most of those whom patriotism 
had impelled to join the army, would continue in th« 
service of their country; but when the experiment was 
made, it was found that their ardor had considerably 
abated. The blockade of Boston presented no opportunity 
of acquiring glory, by deeds of noble daring; the fatiguing 
duties of the camp wore upon their spirits, affected their 
health, and produced an unconquerable longing to revisit 
their homes. Notwithstanding the great exertions of 
general Washington, no more than half the estimated 
number had been enlisted at the close of the year. 

79. The people and the troops, supposing the army to 
be stronger than it was, expressed great dissatisfaction at 
the inactivity of the commander-in-chief, which some 
imputed to dishonoi able motives. An attack upon Boston 
was loudly demanded. Washington three times proposed 
it to a council of war; but in every instance the decision 
wasunanimous againstit. At the last time, however, the 
council recommended that the town should be more closely 
invested. On the evening of the fourth of March, 1776, 
the attention of the enemy being diverted, by a brisk 
cannonade, to a different quarter, a party of troops, under 
the command of general Thomas, took possession, in 
eHenoe, of Dorchester heights, and, with almost incredible 



1775.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 159 

industry, erected, before morninff, a line of fortifications 
which commanded the harbor and the town. 

80. The view of these works, raised hke an exhalation 
from the earth, excited the astonishment of general Howe, 
who, on the resignation of general Gaffe, had^ been appoint- 
ed commander-in-chief. He saw that ne must immediately 
dislodge the Americans or evacuate the town. The next 
day he ordered 3000 men to embark in boats, and proceeded, 
by way of Castle island, to attack the works on tne heights. 
A furious storm dispersed them ; the fortifications, in the 
mean time, were rendered too strong to be forced ; and 
eeneral Howe was competed to seek safety in an imme- 
diate departure from Boston. 

81. Of the determination of the enemy to evacuate the 
town, general Washington was soon apprized. The event 
being certain, he did not wish by an attack to hasten it, as 
the fortifications at New York, to which place he presumed 
they would repair, were not in sufficient forwardness to 
protect it The embarkation was made on the 17th of 
March; a few days after, the whole fleet set sail, and the 
American army hastened, by divisions, to New York. 

82. The acquisition of this important town occasioned 
great and general rejoicing. The thanks of congress were 
voted to general Washington and his troops, for their wise 
and spirited conduct; a medal of gold was ordered to be 
struck in commemoration of the event. The British fleet, 
instead of conveying the troops to New York, steered for 
Halifax, havmg on board a large number of tories and 
their baggage. 



CHAPTER XVn. 

EXPEDITION AGAINST CANADA. 

It has been already stated, that two expeditions were 
despatched against Canada. The command of that, which 
was to proceed by waj of lake Champlain, was given to 

feneral Schuyler of New York. The number of troops to 
e employed was fixed at three thousand, and they were 
to be drawn from New York and New England. Governor 
Carleton, gaining intelligence of the project, despatched 
about eight hundred men to strengthen the works at St. 

P 



160 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

Johns, on the river Sorel, a position commanding the usual 
entrance into Canada. 

2. Brigadier-general Montgomery, a young officer of 
brilliant talents, and ambitious of glory, was ordered to 
proceed in advance, with the troops, then in readiness, and 
attack this important position, before it had been made too 
strong to be taken. When commencing his career, the 
glory and fate of Wolfe were present to his thoughts, and 
10 his wife his parting words were, "You shall never blush 
for your Montgomery." General Schuyler soon followed, 
and on arriving at Isle aux Noix, in the vicinity of the 
British works, he addressed a proclamation to the Cana- 
dians, exhorting them to join their brethren in the cause of 
freedom, and declaring that the American army came as 
friends of the inhabitants, and as enemies only of the 
British garrisons. 

3. The fortifications at St Johns being found stronger 
than was anticipated, general Schuyler returned to Albany, 
to hasten the departure of the remaining troops, artillery, 
and munitions of war. He was prevented, by a severe 
illness, from again joining the army, and the chief com- 
mand devolved upon Montgomery. On receiving a rein- 
forcement, he invested St. Johns: but being yet almost 
destitute of battering cannon and of powder, he made no 
progress in the siege. And the soldiers, carrying with 
them into the field that attachment to liberty and equality 
which gave birth to the contest, displayed such utter aver- 
sion to discipline and subordination as increased, in a great 
degree, his difficulties and vexations. 

4. Colonel Allen, the hero of Ticonderoga, had a com- 
mand under Montgomery. Having been despatched, with 
major Brown, into the interior of Canada, he was, on his 
return, persuaded by the latter to undertake the rash pro- 
ject of attacking Montreal. He divided his detachment, 
consisting of less than three hundred men, into two 
parties, intending to assail the city at opposite points. 
Major Brown was prevented from executing his part of the 
enterprise. Colonel Allen and his small party, opposed by 
the whole force of the enemy under governor Carleton, 
fought with desperate valor. Many were killed ; the sur- 
vivors, overpowered by numbers, were compelled to sur- 
render. The governor, viewing Allen, not as the intrepid 
soldier, but as a factious rebel, loaded him with irons and 
Rent him to England for trial. 



1775.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 161 

5. On the 18th of October, a fortunate event brightened 
the prospects of the Americans. Fort Chamblee, situated 
several miles north of St. Johns, was supposed to be 
beyond their reach, and was but slightly guarded. A 
detachment under majors Brown and Livingston, attacking 
it unexpectedly, gained possession of it with little loss. 
Several pieces of cannon, and 120 barrels of powder, were 
the fruits of the victory. The Americans, encouraged b)?" 
success, immediately, in defiance of the continual fire of 
the enemy, erected a battery near fort St. Johns, and 
made preparations for a severe cannonade., and an assault, 
if necessary. 

6. At this juncture, Montgomery received intelligence 
of an action between governor Carleton and a body of 
Green Mountain boys commanded by colonel Warner. 
The former, elated by his victory over Allen, collected 
about eight hundred regulars, militia, and Indians, with the 
view of raising the seige of St. Johns. In full confidence 
of success, they left Montreal, embarked in boats, and pro- 
ceeded towards the southern shore of the St. Lawrence. 
In the bushes at the water's edge, colonel Warner, having 
received informationof their purpose, concealed three hun- 
dred men, who, when the enemy approached the shore, 
pdured upon them a fire so unexpected and .destructive, 
that the flotilla returned, in confusion, to Montreal. 

7. On the first of November, Montgomery commenced 
a heavy cannonade of the enemy's works, which was con- 
tinued through the day. In the evening, he sent to the 
British commander, by one of governor Carleton's men, 
who had been made prisoner by colonel Warner, intelli- 
gence of the governor's defeat, and demanded the surren- 
aer of the fort. It was accordingly surrendered, and the 
next morning entered by the American troops. 

8. Montgomery hastened to Montreal, and, at the same 
time, despatched down the Sorel, the mouth of which is 
below that city, a naval force to prevent the escape of the 
British to Quebec. Governor Carleton, believing the city 
not tenable, quitted it in the night, and, in a boat with 
muffled oars, was conveyed through the American squad- 
ron. The next day, general Montgomery entered the city, 
and although no terms were granted to the inhabitants, he 
treated them with the kindness of a fellow citizen, declaring 
that the property, rights, and religion of every individual 
should be sacredly respected. 

9 By his benevolence and address, he gained the afFec- 



162 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775 

tions of the Canadians, many of whom joined his standard. 
More, 1 owever, of his own troops, whose term of enlist- 
ment had expired, insisted on returning to their homes. 
So dear to them were the delights of the aomestic fireside, 
and so vividly were they recalled to memory by the severe 
duties of the campaign, that the high character of the com- 
mander, his address, his entreaties, availed nothing to in- 
duce them to proceed on the expedition. With the remnant 
of his army, consisting of no more than three hundred men, 
he began his march towards Quebec, expecting to meet 
there another body of troops sent to act in concert with him. 

10. These troops were a detachment from the army before 
Boston, consisting of one thousand men, and commanded 
by colonel Arnold ; who, as a soldier, was adventurous, 
impetuous, and fearless ; as a man, overbearing, avari- 
cious, and profligate. Their route lay along the coast to 
the mouth of the Kennebec, in Maine, thence up that river 
to its source, and thence, over lofty mountains, through a 
wilderness unexplored b}^ civilized men, to the river St. 
Lawrence. They were unable to begin their march before 
the middle of September ; on the 22d, they embarked in 
boats, at Gardiner, on the Kennebec, and proceeded to 
ascend that river. 

11. They found the current rapid, and the navigation 
interrupted by frequent cataracts. Around these they 
were obliged to draw, by hand, their provisions, arms, and 
even their boats. Nor was their route on land less diffi- 
cult. They had deep swamps to pass, and craggy moun- 
tains to ascend. The toil was so incessant, and the fatigue 
so great, that many, falling sick, were sent back, and along 
with these the rear division, commanded by colonel Enos, 
returned without the knowledge of Arnold. 

12. Before they reached the height of land, provisions 
became scarce. Dogs, cartridge-boxes, and shoes were 
eaten. At the summit, the whole stock was divided 
equally among them, each receiving but two quarts of 
flour as his portion. The order of march was no longer 
observed. The soldiers were directed to proceed, singly 
or by companies, as they might choose, slowly or with 
speed, as they were able, to the nearest Canadian settle- 
ment, then one hundred miles distant. When the com- 
pany, whose superior strength enabled them to keep in 
advance, were thirty miles from any human habitation, 
the last morsel of food had been consumed. 

13. In this extremity, Arnold, with a few of the most 



1775.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 163 

vigorous, made a forced march to the first village, and 
returned to his almost famished companio s, with food 
sufficient to satisfy the first wants of nature. Refreshed 
and strengthened, they hastened forward, and, on the fourth 
of NovemDer, arrived at the French settlements on the 
Chaudiere, having been thirty-two days without seeing 
the abodes of civilized man ; and having, in that time, per- 
formed a march unexampled for its temerity and hardship. 

14. The inhabitants welcomed them with cordial hos- 
pitality. Though separated, in a great measure, from the 
world, they had heard of the dispute between GroatBritain 
and her colonies, and as the very name of liberty is dear 
to the heart of man, their sympathies were all enlisted on 
the side of the latter. Arnold distributed proclamations 
among them similar to those issued by general Schuyler. 
As soon as the scattered soldiers were assembled, he con- 
tinued his march, and, on the ninth of November, arrived 
at Point Levi, opposite Quebec. 

15. Nothing could exxeed the surprise and astonishment 
of the citizens on seeing a body of hostile troops, emerging 
from the southern wilderness. Had Arnold, at this mo- 
ment of panic, been able to cross the river, the city must 
have fallen an easy conquest; but boats were not at hand, 
and a furious storm, occurring at the time, rendered cross- 
ing impossible. 

16. Havmg procured boats, andthe storm having abated, 
he crossed the river on the night of the 13th, and landed 
near the place where Wolfe had landed in the preceding 
war. Mounting the same steep ascent, he formed his 
troops on the plains of Abraham, and marched towards 
the city. Convinced, by a cannonade from the walls, that 
the garrison were ready to receive him, he returned, en- 
camped on the plain, and on the ISth marched to Point 
aux Trembles, twenty miles from Quebec, where he 
determined to await the arrival of Montgomery. 

17. He came on the first of December. How great was 
the joy, and how lively the gratulations, they only can 
imagine, who, after long absence and suffering, have met, 
in a foreign land, their friends and former companions. 
Arnold's troops had, indeed, great cause of rejoicing. 
They were entirely destitute of winter clothing, and had 
endured extreme distress from the severity of the cold. 
Montgomery had brought a supply from Montreal, which 
he immediately distributed among them. 

18. Their united force amounted to no more than nino 

P 



164 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

hundred effective men. On the fifth, the general, at the 
head of these, appeared before the city, and sent a flag 
with a summons to surrender. The delay which had taken 
place, had enabled governor Carleton to increase the 
strength of the works, and to change the sentiments of the 
citizens from friendship for the Americans to hostility. He 
ordered his troops to fire on the bearer of the flag. 

19. Montgomery soon discovered the defect of his friends, 
and perceived that he must depend upon his own force 
alone for the accomplishment of his object. When he com- 
pared this force with that of the enemy, who were fifteen 
hundred strong ; when he reflected that his troops were re- 
cent levies, whose term was nearly expired, and whose 
thoughts were fixed upon their homes, his hopes of suc- 
cess became faint, and his forebodings gloomy. He believ- 
ed, however, that success was possible, and his high sense 
of honor and of duty impelled him to hazard every thing 
to obtain it for his country. 

20. He at first determined to batter the walls, and harass 
the city, by repeated and furious attacks, hoping that anoo- 
portunity might occur of striking some decisive blow. He 
raised a mound, composed of snow and water, which soon 
became ice, and there planted his cannons, six only in 
number. After a short trial, they were found inadequate, 
and this plan was abandoned. 

21. Meanwhile, the snow fell incessantly, the cold became 
intense, andthesufl:erings of the troops, from the rigor of 
the season and their continual toil, surpassed all that 
they had ever before felt, or witnessed, or imagined. To 
increase their distress, the small-pox broke out in the camp, 
presenting death in a new shape, and adding to the severi- 
ty of their labors, by lessening the number to bear them. 
In the midst of these trials, their attachment to the cause, 
and devotion to their commander, remained unabated, 
but these, he reflected, must soon give way before 
such severe and constant sufTering; and for himself, 
he determined to make immediately a bold and desperate 
effort. 

22. Assembling his officers, he proposed to storm the 
city. He placed before them the motives which operated 
upon his own mind. He did not deny that the enterprise 
was highly difficult and dangerous, but maintained that 
success was possible. He addressed a band of heroes 
whose sentiments were congenial with his own, and the 
decision was unanimous in favor of his proposition. Tha 



1/75.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 165 

plan and time of attack were concerted, and to each officer 
was assigned his particular duty. 

23. On the last day of December, at four o'clock in the 
morning-, while a violent snow storm was raging, the troops 
marched from the camp in four columns, commanded by 
Montgomery, Arnold, Livingston, and Brown. The two 
latter were directed to make feigned attacks upon the 
upper town, in order to distract the attention of the garri- 
Bon ; while the two former proceeded to assault the Tower 
town at opposite points. 

24. Livingston and Brown, impeded by the snow, did 
not arrive in season to execute their feints. Montgomery, 
advancing, at the head of his column, along the bank of 
the river, came to a barrier or stockade of strong posts. 
Two of these he sawed off with his own hands. The guard 
within were alarmed, and fled to a block-house, fifty 
yards distant, where several pieces of cannon were sta- 
tioned. He passed through tlie opening in the barrier, 
encouraging his men to fofiow. Tne troops at the block- 
house, to whom the guard had communicated their terror, 
began to desert it. 

25. At this moment, Montgomery halted, to allov/ the 
troops near him to form in a body. Observing this delay, 
a Canadian, who lingered behind, returned to the block- 
house, seized a match which was burning, and discharged 
a cannon loaded with grape shot, and fortuitously pointed 
at the little band. The discharge was instantly fatal to 
Montgomery, and to several favorite officers standing 
around him. The men, seeing their beloved leader fall, 
shrunk back; colonel Campbell, the next in command, 
ordered a retreat, and that portion of the garrison stationed 
at the block-house, was left at liberty tohasten to another 
part of the city, already in commotion from the attack of 
Arnold. 

26. This officer, marching, like Montgomery, at the 
head of his column, had entered the town. Advancing 
along a narrow street, which was swept by the grape shot 
of the enemy, he received a severe wound, in the leg, and 
was carried to the hospital. Captain Morgan, afterwards 
distinguished by his exploits at the south, assumed the 
command. Placing himself at the head of two companies, 
he boldly approached the enemy's works, and entering 
through the embrasures, drove the men from their guns. 

27." Here he halted until the rear of the column came 
up. When time was given for reflection, the danger of 



166 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

their situation, a small band in the heart of a hostile city, 
filled even the bosoms of the brave with dread. Morgan 
retained his firmness ; and when the morning dawned, 
with a voice that resounded through the city, summoned 
his troops to the assault of a second battery, a short 
distance in advance of the first. 

28. Before this, a fierce combat ensued. Many of the 
enemy were killed, but more Americans, who were ex- 
posed to a destructive fireof musketry from the windows 
of the houses. Some of the most daring mounted the 
wall, but, seeing, on the other side, two ranks of soldiers, 
with their muskets on the ground, presenting hedges of 
bayonets to receive them, should they leap forward, they 
recoiled and descended. 

29. Weary with exertion, and benumbed with cold ; 
exposed to a deadly fire from every quarter ; tkeir arms 
rendered useless by the snow which continued to fall, the 
soldiers sought refuge in the houses. Perceiving that 
all further attempts would be vain, Morgan gave the signal 
of retreat. Some of the men fled, but most were unwilling 
to encounter another tempest of shot. They refused, 
however, to yield, until assured of the fate of Montgomery; 
when, losing all hope of success and escape, they surren- 
dered themselves prisoners of war. 

30. The loss of the Americans, in this desperate enter- 
prise, was above four hundred, of whom one hundred and 
fifty were killed. The whole continent bewailed the death 
of Montgomery. He was conspicuous, even in those times 
of enthusiasm, for his ardent devotion to the cause of 
freedom. He was endeared to the good, by the exercise, 
in the midst of war, of the most amiable virtues. His 
soldiers adored him for his lofty spirit and daring bravery. 
The enemy respected him for his honorable conduct, and 
distinguished military qualities. Until his last enterprise, 
continual success bore testimony to the greatness of his 
talents ; and defeat, when he was no more, confirmed the 
testimony of success. Congress resolved that a monu- 
ment should be erected to perpetuate his fame. It lives 
yet fresh in the memory of Americans. In 1818, New 
York, his adopted state, removed his remains from Quebec 
to her own metropolis, where the monument had been 
placed, and near that they repose. 

31. Some of the Americans, on their escape from 
Quebec, retreated precipitately to Mortreal. Arnold, with 
difficulty, detained about four hundred, who, breaking up 



1776.J REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 167 

their camp, retired three miles from the city. Here this 
heroic band, though much inferior in number to the garri- 
son, kept it in continual awe, and, by preventing all com- 
munication with the country, reduced it to great distress 
for the want of provisions. 

32. Congress, on receiving information of the disaster 
of the 31st of December, directed reinforcements to be 
Bent toCanada ; and after the beginning of March, Arnold's 
party was almost daily augmented by the arrival of small 
bodies of troops. But its strength did not increase with 
its numbers. The small-pox still continued its ravages ; 
fatigue, without hope, depressed the spirits of the soldiers ; 
the difficulty of obtaining provisions became every day 
greater ; and the harsh measures adopted by Arnold to 
procure them, exasperated the inhabitants around him. 

33. On the first of May, general Thomas, who had 
been appointed to succeed IVlontgomery, arrived from the 
camp at Roxbury. On reviewing his army, he found it to 
consist of less than two thousand men, of whom half were 
not fit for duty. A council of war was held, who resolved 
that it was expedient to take a more defensible position 
higher up the St. Lawrence. To this decision they were 
lea by the knowledge that the ice was leaving the river, 
and by the expectation that reinforcements from England 
would immediately come up. The next morning, in fact, 
while the Americans were engaged in removing the sick, 
several ships appeared in sight, and entered the harbor. A 
multitude of troops were immediately poured into the city. 

34. At one o'clock, Carleton made a sortie at the head 
of a thousand men. Against these general Thomas, at 
that moment, could oppose but three hundred. All the 
stores, and many of the sick, fell into the power of the 
enemy. The latter were treated, by the governor, with 
great tenderness ; and when restored to health, were 
assisted to return to their homes. The Americans re- 
treated to the mouth of the Sorel, where they were joined 
by several regiments, and where their worthy commander 
died of the small-pox, which yet prevailed in the camp. 

35. While patriotism and valor were, in this quarter, 
unsuccessfully contending with a superior force, the 
Americans sustained a heavy and unexpected calamity, 
resulting from cowardice, in another. At a fortified place, 
called the Cedars, forty miles above Montreal, colonel 
Bedell was stationed with four hundred men, and two 
pieces of cannon. Assembling a force of six hundred. 



168 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1775. 

mostly Indian warriors, captain Foster, who commanded 
at Oswegatchie, descended the river to attack this post. 

39. Colonel Bedell, leaving^ major Butterfield in com- 
mand, repaired to Montreal to obtain assistance. Shortly 
afterwards, captain Foster appeared, and invested the 
fort. He had no artillery, and, in the course of two days, 
but one man was wounded. More efficient than his arms, 
was the intimation, that if any of the Indians should be 
killed, it would not be in his power to restrain them from 
the massacre of the garrison. Intimidated by this, major 
Butterfield surrendered his whole party prisoners of war, 
stipulating only for their baggage and their lives. 

37. Upon the representation of colonel Bedell, a rein- 
forcement was ordered to march from Montreal; but he 
dechned returning with it, and the command was given 
to major Sherburne. The day after the surrender of the 
fort, of which event the major was ignorant, and about 
four miles from it, he was met by a large body of Indians, 
to whom, after an obstinate and bloody conflict, he was 
obliged to surrender. The whole loss of the Americans 
was at least five hundred. 

38. Genera] Sullivan was appointed to succeed general 
Thomas, and on the first of June, arrived at the river 
Sorel, where he found between four and five thousand 
men. But the army of the enemy had, in the mean time, 
been augmented to thirteen thousand. Commanding a 
force so decidedly superior, governor Carleton pressed 
forward in pursuit, and the Americans retreated slowly 
and reluctantly before him. At St. Johns, the pursuit 
ceased ; but general Sullivan, in obedience to orders from 
general Schuyler, continued his march to Crown Point, 
at the head of lake Cham plain. 

39. Thus terminated the expedition against Canada. 
In its conception it was singularly bold and romantic. In 
its progress were displayed fortitude and bravery seldom 
equalled in military annals. Its failure was a painful 
disappointment to the patriots of the day. It is now 
consoling to reflect, that success would probably have 
proved injurious to the cause of independence. To pro- 
tect the province, the military force of the confederacy 
must have been too much extended, and colonies more 
important have been left defenceless. 



169 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

CAMPAIGN OF 1776. 

The last humble petition of congress to the king was 
presented by Mr. Penn, the late governor of Pennsylvania. 
A few days afterwards, he was told by the minister that 
no answer would be made to it. The haughty spirit, 
which dictated this reply, pervaded both houses of par- 
liament. 

2. In December, a law w^as passed amounting to a 
declaration of war against the colonies. Treaties were 
made with the landgrave of Hesse Cassel and other 
German princes, hiring of them seventeen thousand men, 
to be employed against the Americans ; and it was deter- 
mined to send over, in addition to these, twenty-five 
thousand Enghsh troops. 

3. In the beginning of the year 1776, a fleet under sir 
Peter Parker, and two thousand five hundred troops 
commanded by earl Cornwallis, were despatched upon an 
expedition against the southern colonies. Soon after, ad- 
miral Hotham set sail with a large number of transports, 
carrying the first division of Hessians ; and, in May, fol- 
lowed admiral lord Howe, who had been appointed com- 
mander of the naval force on the American station. He, 
and his brother, general Howe, had also been appointed 
joint commissioners to grant pardons on submission. 

4. On the first of May, the fleet, under sir Peter Par- 
ker, arrived on the coast of North Carolina, where sir 
Henry Clinton, arriving at the same time from New York, 
took ccmmand of the troops. The late defeat of the 
Highland emigrants had so dispirited the loyalists in this 
colony, that he determined to proceed farther south, and 
attacK Charleston, the capital of South Carolina. 

5. Fortunately, an official letter, announcing the speedy 
departure of the expedition from England, had been inter- 
cepted early in the spring, and time was thus given to 
place the city in a state of defence. A strong lort was 
built on Sullivan's island, a position from which ships, 
on entering the harbor, could be greatly annoyed ; the 
streets, in different places, were strongly barricaded; the 
stores on the wharves, though of great value, were pulled 
down, and hues of defence erected along the water's edge. 

6. On learning the near approach of the enemy, tne 



170 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1776. 

militia of the country were summoned to defend the cap- 
ital. They obeyed with alacrity, increasing to five or six 
thousand the number of troops. General Lee had been 
Bent from New York to take the chief command; and his 
high military reputation gave confidence to the soldiers 
and inhabitants. Under him were colonels Gadsden, 
Moultrie, and Thompson. 

7. In the morning of the 28th of June, nine ships of 
war, carrying two hundred and fifty guns, began a furious 
attack upon the fort on the island, which was garrisoned 
by about four hundred men, under the command of colonel 
Moultrie. At the same time, a detachment of troops was 
landed on an adjoining island, and directed to cross over, 
at a fjace where the sea was supposed to be shallow, and 
attack it in the rear. 

8. The heavy and incessant fire of the enemy was 
received with coolness, and returned with skill. 'Many 
of their ships sufl^ered severely, and particularly the Bristol, 
on board of which was commodore Parker. She was twice 
in flames, her captain was killed, and so dreadful was the 
slaughter, that, at one time, the commodore was the only 
person upon deck unhurt. 

9. In the midst of the action, general Lee visited the 
garrison. He was delighted with the enthusiasm they 
exhibited. Nothing seemed capable of quenching their 
ardor. Soldiers, mortally wounded, exhorted their com- 
rades never to abandon the standard of liberty. " I die," 
said sergeant M'Donald, in his last moments, "for a glo- 
rious cause ; but I hope it will not expire with me." 

10. The British troops, destined to attack the fort in the 
rear, found it impossible to reach the island. The engage- 
ment with the fleet continued until dark. The ships, hav- 
ing received too much injury to renew it, moved off* in the 
night; and a few days afterwards the fleet, with the troops 
on board, set sail for New York, where the whole British 
force had been ordered to assemble. 

11. The killed and wounded on the part of the enemy, 
amounted to near two hundred. Of the Americans, ten 
were killed, and twenty-two wounded. The troops, for 
their gallantry, received the thanks of congress, and high 
and well merited praise from their countrymen. Their 
success was auspicious to the cause of freedom. In a part 
of the country where resistance by force had been but 
little contemplated, it aroused the people to exertion, and 
inspired them with confidence. 



1776.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 171 

12. Notwithstanding the active war carried on, the 
colonies still professed allegiance to the British king; and 
protested that the sole object of all their measures, was a 
redress of grievances. In the beginning of the contest, 
these professions, in most instances, were sincere ; but a 
state of hostility produced a rapid change of sentiment 
Tn place of attachment to monanchy and to Great Britain, 
succeeded devotion to republican prmciples, and wishes 
for independence. 

13. The temporary constitutions adopted by New 
Hampshire, and several other colonies, had shown with 
what facility all bonds of connection with the mother 
country could be dissolved. Essays in the newspapers, 
and pamphlets industriously circulated, appealing to the 
reason and to the passions of the people, enforced the 
necessity and policy of a separation. Resistance, it was 
observed, had been carried too far to allow the hope that 
cordial harmony could ever be restored; submission, on 
any terms, to irritated masters, would be totally unsafe; 
and the alternative was presented of rising to the honora- 
ble rank of an independent nation, or sinking into a state 
of vassalage which every future year would render more 
oppressive and degrading. 

14. A pamphlet, entitled "Common Sense," and written 
by Thomas Paine, an Englishman, was universally read, 
and most highly admired. In language plain, forcible, and 
singularly well fitted to operate on the public mind, he 
portrayed the excellencies of republican institutions, and 
attacked, with happy and successful ridicule, the principles 
of hereditary government. The effect of the pamphlet, in 
making converts, was astonishing, and is probably without 
precedent in the annals of literature. 

15. As a step preparatory to independence, congress, on 
the I5th of May, recommended to those colonies that had 
not yet adopted constitutions, to establish, without any 
limitation of time, "such governments as might best con- 
duce to the happiness and safety of the people." The 
recommendation was generally complied with, and in every 
instance the government was not only entirely elective, 
but elective at such short periods as to impress upon rulers 
their immediate accountableness to the people, and upon 
the people a just opinion of their own importance, and a 
conviction of their safety from misrule. 

16. The colonies had become accustomed to contemplate 
themselves as sovereign states ; and the governments of 



172 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [177a 

many expressed their desire that congress would declare 
them such to the world. On the 7th of June, a resolution 
to that effect was proposed, in that body, by Richard Henry 
Lee, of Virginia, and seconded by John Adams, of Massa- 
chusetts. \Vhile under consideration, the colonies which 
had not expressed their approbation of the measure, 
declared their concurrence. A committee, consisting of 
Messrs. Jefferson, Adams, Franklin, Sherman, and Living- 
ston, were instructed to prepare a Declaration of Inde- 
pendence, which, on the fourth of July, a memorable day, 
was almost unanimously adopted. 

17. "We hold these truths," says this celebrated state 
paper, '' to be self evident, that all mankind are created 
equ al ; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain 
unalienable rights; that among these, are life, liberty, and 
the pursuit of happiness; that to secure these rights, 
governments are instituted among men, deriving their just 
powers from the consent of the governed ; that whenever 
any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, 
it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to 
institute a new government, laying its foundations on such 
principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to 
them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and 
happiness." 

18. To justify the exercise, on the present occasion, of 
the right here asserted, a long enumeration is made of the 
injuries inflicted upon the colonies, by the king of Great 
Britain, which is closed by declaring that "a prince, whose 
character is thus marked by every act which may deline 
a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people." 

19. The appeals which had been made to the people of 
Great Britain are also recounted ; " but they too have been 
deaf to the voice of justice and consanguinity. We must 
therefore acquiesce in the necessity which denounces our 
separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, 
enemies in war, in peace friends. 

20. " We therefore, the representatives of the United 
States of America, in general congress assembled, appeal- 
ing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude 
of our intentions, do, in the name, and by the authority of 
the good people of these colonies, solemnly publish and 
declare, that these United Colonies are, and of right ought 
to be, FREE and independent states; that they are 
absolved from all allegiance to the British crown, and that 
all political connection between them and the state of 



1776.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 173 

Great Britain is, and of right ought to be, totally dissolved ; 
and that, as free and independent states, they have full 
power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, 
establish commerce, and do all other acts and things which 
independent states may of right do. And for the support 
of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection 
of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other 
our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor." 

21. This declaration was communicated to the army, 
and received with enthusiastic plaudits. A great majority 
of the people welcomed it with joy, which was displayeH 
in almost every city, by extraordinary public festivities. 
Those who had been denominated tories, were averse to 
a separation. Many joined the royal armies, and exhibited, 
during the war, the most cruel hostility against the whigs, 
their countrymen. 

22. During the spring and summer, unremitted exertions 
were made to fortify the city of New York, against which, 
it was supposed, the whole strength of the enemy would 
be next directed. In this crisis the people of that state 
acted with spirit and firmness. One fourth of the militia 
of the counties contiguous to the city, were called into 
the public service. Yet the means, in the power of the 
commander-in-chief, were not adequate to the emergency. 
He had under his command but fourteen thousand effective 
men; and was almost destitute of many articles which 
impart strength as well as comfort to an army. As it was 
in the power of the enemy to choose their point of attack, 
this force was necessarily divided. A part was stationed 
in the city, a part at Brooklyn, on Long Island, and small 
detachments at various other posts. 

23. In the beginning of .July, admiral and general Howe 
arrived in the harbor of New York. They were accom- 
panied by a powerful naval force, and by an army of twenty- 
jour thousand men, abundantly supphed with military 
stores. The troops were landed on Staten Island, a po- 
sition from which ulterior movements could most con- 
veniently be made. 

24. General Washington, presumingthatthe first attack 
would be made upon the posts at Brooklyn, strengthened 
it by a detachment of troops from the city, and gave the 
command of it to general Putnam. On the 22d of August, 
the British forces were landed on the opposite side of 
Long Island. The two armies were now about four miles 
asunder, and were separated by a range of hills, over which 



174 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1776. 

passed three main roads. Various circumstances led 
general Putnam to suspect that the enemy intended to 
approach him by the road leading to his right, which he 
tnerefore guarded with most care. 

25. Very early in the morning of the 26th, his suspicions 
were strengthened by the approach, upon that road, of a 
column of British troops, and upon the centre road, of a 
column of Hessians. To oppose these, the American 
troops were mostly drawn from their camp, and in the en- 
gagements which took place, evinced considerable bravery. 

26. These movements of the enemy were but feints to 
divert the attention of Putnam from the road which led to 
his left, along which general Clinton was silently advancing 
with the main body of the British army. The report of 
cannon in that direction gave the first intimation of the 
danger which was approacning. The Americans endeav- 
ored to escape it, by returning, with the utmost celerity, to 
their camp. They were not able to arrive there in time, 
but were intercepted by general Clinton, who drove them 
back upon the Hessians. 

27. Attacked thus in front and rear, they fought a suc- 
cession of skirmishes, in the course of which many were 
killed, many made prisoners, and several parties, seizing 
favorable opportunities, forced their way through the 
enemy, and regained the camp. A bold and vigorous 
charge, m^de by the American general, lord Sterling, at 
tJiehead of a Maryland regiment, enabled a large body to 
escape in this manner. This regiment, fighting with des- 
perate bravery, kept a force greatly superior engaged, until 
their comrades had passed by, when the few who survived, 
ceasing to resist, surrendered to the enemy. 

28. The loss of the Americans, in killed, wounded, and 

f>risoners, considerably exceeded a thousand. Among the 
atter were generals SulUvan, Sterling, and Woodhull. 
The total loss of the enemy was less than four hundred. 
They encamped at night before the American lines ; and 
the next day began to erect batteries within six hundred 
yards of their left. 

29. While the battle was raging, general Washington 
passed over to Brooklyn, where he witnessed, with inex- 
pressible anguish, the destruction of his best troops, from 
which, such was the superiority of the enemy, it was 
impossible to save them. Finding the men dispirited by 
defeat, he determined to remove them to the city. The 
retreat was effected, on the night of the 28th, with such 



1776.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 175 

silence and despatch, that before the suspicions of the 
enemy were excited, the last division of boats was beyond 
the reach of their fire. 

aO. So disheartened were the militia, that they deserted 
by companies; and even the regular troops were infected 
by their example. Near the middle of September, the 
commander-in-chief, fearing to be enclosed in the city, re- 
tired to the heights of Haerlem. The enemy immediately 
took possession. A few days afterwards, a fire broke out 
which consumed about a thousand houses. 

31. General Washington, after reflecting upon the 
events which had already occurred ; after considering the 
inexperience of his troops, the condition of the country, 
and the distance of the enemy from their resources, deter- 
mined to adopt a cautious system of warfare; to risk at 
present no general engagement; to harass and wear out 
the enemy by keepmg them in continual motion ; and to 
inspire his own troops with courage, by engaging them in 
skirmishes, m all cases where success was probable. In 
one fought on the 6th of September, the brave colonel 
Knowlton was killed ; but the result was so decidedly 
favorable to the Americans, that the troops recovered 
their spirits ; and the general was confirmed in the system 
he had adopted. 

32. The movements of the enemy, in the beginning of 
October, indicated an intention of gaining the rear of the 
Americans, and cutting off their communication with the 
eastern states. The army, therefore, quitting Haerlem, 
moved northward towards White Plains. General Howe 
pursued, making several attempts to bring on a general 
engagement, which Washington avoided by skilful changes 
of position. A partial action was fought, on the 28th of 
October, in which the loss on both sides was nearly 
equal. 

33. Findino- his antagonist too cautious to be drawn into 
the open field, and too strong to be attacked in his en- 
trenchments, general Howe determined to return towards 
New York, and attack forts Washington and Lee, situated 
opposite to each other on the banks of the Hudson, and 
about ten miles above the city. In these forts, garrisons 
had been left, from a wish to preserve the command of this 
important river. That in fort Washington, consisting in 
part of militia, amounted to two thousand seven hundred 
men, under colonel Magaw. 

34. On the 16th of November, four divisions of the 

q 



170 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 11776. 

enemy's army, led by theirprincipal officers, attacked it in 
four different quarters The garrison, and particularly 
the riflemen under colonel Rawlings, fought bravely. — 
The Germans were several times driven back, with great 
loss. But these combined and vigorous attacks were at 
length successful. The ammunition in the fort being 
nearly exhausted, and all the outposts driven in, the com- 
mander, on being a second time summoned, agreed to 
capitulate, on honorable terms. This was the severest 
blow the Americans had yet felt. The loss of the enemy, 
however, in killed and wounded, was supposed to be twelve 
hundred men. 

35. Fort Lee was immediately evacuated, the garrison 
joining general Washington. He had previously, with one 
division of his army, crossed over into New Jersey, leav- 
ing the other, under the command of general Lee, in New 
York. His force, even when augmented by the garrison, 
consisted of but three thousand effective men, and they 
were destitute of tents, of blankets, and even of utensils 
to cook their provisions. His first station was Newark ; 
but the enemy pursuing him, he was compelled to retreat 
successively to Brunswick, to Princeton, to TreniGD. and 
finally to cross the Delaware into Pennsylvania; ana so 
close was the pursuit, that the advance of the British army 
was often in sight. 

36. Small as was his force when the retreat began, it 
diminished daily. On the last of November, many of his 
troops were entitled to their discharge, and not one of 
them could be persuaded to continue another day in ser- 
vice. Such he feared would be the conduct of the re- 
mainder, whose time would expire at the end of the year. 
In this extremity, he urged general Lee to hasten to his 
assistance ; But that officer, having other purposes in view, 
delayed his march. He called on the militia of New 
Jersey and Pennsylvania, but none obeyed his call. The 
population around him were hostile or desponding, and 
withheld all aid from an army whose career seemed near 
its termination. 

37. In this darkest hour in American history, general 
Howe issued a proclamation offering pardon to all who 
would declare their submission to royal authority. The 
contrast between a ragged, suffering, retreating army, and 
a full clad, powerful, exulting foe, induced many, despair- 
ing of success, to abandon the cause they had espoused, 
and accept of pardon. Among them were Mr. Galloway 



1776.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 177 

and Mr. Allen, who had been members of the continental 

congress. 

38. As the British army approached Philadelphia, con- 
gress adjourned to Baltimore, having previously invested 
general Washington with "full power to order and direct 
all things relative to the department, and to the operations 
of war. Such unlimited authority could not have been 
placed in hands more worthy to hold it. To the elastic 
energy of his mind, and his perfect self-possession in the 
most desperate circumstances, is America, in a great de- 
gree, indebted for her independence. 

39. On the day that he was driven overthe Delaware, 
the British took possession of Rhode Island. On the 13th 
of December, general Lee, having wandered from his 
army, was surprised and taken prisoner. In the experi- 
ence and talents of this officer, the people reposed great 
confidence, and they lamented his loss like that of an army. 
In its consequences, his capture was fortunate. The 
command of his division devolved upon general Sullivan, 
who conducted it promptly to general Washington, aug- 
menting his army to nearly seven thousand effective men. 

40. Still so much strongs were the enemy, that they 
regarded the rebels — for so they delighted to call the 
patriots of that day — as almost subdued, and doubted not 
that a vigorous attempt, whenever they should be disposed 
to make it, would place in their power the handful of men 
before them. They rioted upon the plunder of the coun. 
try, and enjoyed in prospect the fruits of an assured and 
decisive victory, 

41. Washington saw that this tide of ill fortune must 
be stemmed — must even be rolled back upon the enemy—- 
or it would soon overwhelm his country. He resolved to 
hazard all that was left in one vigorous effort for victory. 
On the night of the 25th of December, at the head of two 
thousand four hundred men, he crossed the Delaware at 
Trenton, surprised a body of Hessians stationed at that 
place, took nine hundred prisoners, and immediately re- 
crossed, having lost but nine of his men. 

42. This sudden and severe blow awakened the enemy 
to activity. Cornwallis, who had repaired to New York, 
intrusting to his inferior officers the task of finishing the 
war, returned with additional troops, to regain the ground 
that had been lost. He concentrated his forces at Prince- 
ton ; and soon after, Washington, having been joined by 
a body of Pennsylvania militia, and persuaded the New 



178 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1777. 

England troops to serve six weeks longer, again crossed 
the Delaware and took post at Trenton. 

43. On the 2d of January, 1777, the greater part of the 
British army marched to attack the Americans. In the 
evening, they encamped near Trenton, in full expectation 
of a battle and victory in the morning. Washington, 
sensible of the inferiority of his force ; sensible too that 
flight would be almost as fatal as defeat, conceived another 
bold project, which he resolved instantly to execute. 

44. About midnight, having renewedhis fires, he silent- 
ly decamped, and gaining, by a circuitous route, the rear 
of the enemy, marched towards Princeton, where he pre- 
sumed Cornwallis had left a part of his troops. At sun- 
rise, the van of the American forces met unexpectedly two 
British regiments. A sharp action ensued; the former 
gave way. At this crisis, when all was at stake, the com- 
mander-in-chief led the mainbody to the attack. The enemy 
were routed and fled. Fortunately the heroic Washington, 
though exposed to both fires, and but a few yards distant 
from either party, escaped unhurt. 

45. Instead of pursuing them, he pressed forward to 
Princeton, where one regimentyet remained. Part saved 
tliemselves by a precipitate 'flight; about three hundred 
were made prisoners. The British loss in killed was up- 
wards of one hundred; the American was less, but in the 
nn mber were the brave general Mejcer, and several valua- 
ble officers. Among the wounded was lieutenant James 
Monroe, afterwards raised to the highest office in the gift 
of his fellow-citizens. 

46. In consternation, the British army immediately evac- 
uated Trenton, and retreated to New Brunswipk. The 
Inhabitants, resuming their courage, and giving full force 
to their rage, which fear had smothered, took revenge for 
the brutalities they had suffered. The enemy were driven 
from all their posts in New .Jersey, except Amboy and 
Brunswick, and the American array obtained secure"^ win- 
ter quarters at Morristown. 

47. The briUiant victories at Trenton and Princeton 
raised, from the lowest depression, the spirits of the 
American people. They regarded Washingion as the sa- 
vior of his country. He became the theme of eulogy 
throughout Europe. And having displayed, as occasions 
demanded, the opposite qualities of caution and impetu- 
osity, he received the honorable and appropriate appellation 
of the American Fabius. 



179 

CHAPTER XIX 

CAMPAIGN OF 1777. 

The firmness manifested by congress, when disaster 
and defeat had almost annihilated the American army, 
entitles the members to the gratitude and admiration of 
every friend of freedom. They exhibited no symptom 
of terror or dismay. They voted to raise an army to take 
the place of that vi^hich was to be disbanded at the end of 
the year; and made sensible by experience, that short 
enlistments had been the cause of most of the misfortunes 
of their country, they resolved that the new levies should 
be enlisted to serve three years or during the war, at the 
option of the individual recruits. To defray expenses, 
they made large emissions of paper money, and to evince 
their firm determination to the world, they solmenly 
declared that they would listen to no terms of peace which 
required a relinquishment of their independence, or 
which should deprive other nations of a free trade to 
their ports. 

2. Relying on the inveterate enmity of France against 
Great Britain, they sent commissioners to that court, 
with instructions to solicit a loan of money, a supply of 
munitions of war, and an acknowledgment of the inde- 
pendence of the United States. These commissioners 
were Dr. Franklin, Silas Deane, and Arthur Lee. Frank- 
lin arrived at Paris in December. The cause of which 
he was the advocate, and his own great fame as a philos- 
opher, procured him a flattering reception from all ranks 
of people. America, her minister, her struggle against 
oppression, became the themes of popular discourse, and 
the government itself was rendered in secret propitious to 
her cause. 

3. The ministry permitted arms, covertly taken from 
the public arsenals, to be conveyed to the United States. 
They connived at the sale, in their West India islands, 
and even in the ports of France, of the prizes taken by 
American privateers. The value of these prizes, made in 
the year 1776, was computed at five millions of dollars, 
and far exceeded that of the captures made by the enemy. 

4. So popular was the cause of the United States, and 
BO exalted the character of their military leader, that 
many French otficers sought an opportunity of engaging 



180 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1777 

in their service. Among these, the young marquis dela 
Fayette was most conspicuous for his rank, and most dis- 
tinguished for his ardor and enthusiasm. At an early 
period, he communicated to the American agents his wish 
to join the repubhcan armies. At first, they encouraged 
his zeal, hut learning the disasters which preceded the 
victory at Trenton, they, with honorable frankness, com- 
municated the information to him, and added that they 
were so destitute of funds, that they could not even pro- 
vide for his passage across the ocean. 

5. "If your country," replied the gallant youth, "is in- 
deed reduced to this extremity, it is at this moment that 
my departure to join her armies will render her the most 
essential service." He immediately hired a vessel to 
convey him to America, where he arrived in the spring of 
1777. He was received with cordial affection by the 
people, became the bosom friend of Washington, solicited 
permission to serve without pay, and was appointed 
major-general in the army. 

6. In the last campaign, more prisoners had been taken 
by the British than by the Americans. They were de- 
tained at New York, and were confined in churches and 
prison ships, where they endured the extremity of wretch- 
edness. They were exposed, without fire and almost 
without clothes, to the inclemency of a severe winter ; 
were often whole days without food, and when food w^as 
offered, it was but a miserable pittance, damaged and 
loathsome. Many died of hunger, and more of diseases, 
produced by their complicated sufferings. 

7. Washington remonstrated with warmth, and threat- 
ened retaliation. After his victories in New Jersey, 
their treatment was less inhuman. An exchange was 
agreed upon, but many, when attempting to walk from 
their places of confinement to the vessels provided to 
convey them away, fell and expired in the streets. Yet 
in the midst of these unparalleled sufferings, they had 
exhibited fortitude more rare, and more honorable to 
human nature, than the highest display of valor in battle. 
To entice them to enlist in the royal army, they were prom- 
ised relief from misery, and the enjoyment of abundance. 
They rejected the offer with disdain; thus giving to the 
world the noblest proof of the absence of all mercenary 
motive, and of the sincerity and fervor of their devotion 
to their country. 

8. Near the end of May, the American army, which 



1777.1 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 181 

had been augmented by recruits to almost ten thousand 
men, moved from Morristown, and took a strong position 
at Middlebrook. The British, soon after, left their en- 
campment, and g:eneral Howe endeavored, by various 
movements, to induce general Washington to quit his 
strong hold and meet him on equal ground. But the lattep, 
adhering to his Fabian system of warfare, determined to 
remain in the position he had chosen. 

9. General Howe, changing his purpose, transported his 
army to Staten Island. He there embarked sixteen 
thousand troops on board a large fleet, and, leaving sir 
Henry Clinton in command at New York, put out to sea on 
the 26th of July. His destination was carefully kept secret. 
On the 20th of August, the fleet entered Chesapeake bay, 
and rendered it certain that an attack upon Pniladelphia 
was intended. The troops were landed at Elk ferry, in 
Maryland, fifty miles south of that city. 

10. The American army immediately crossed the Dela- 
ware, and passing through Philadelphia, directed its march 
towards the enemy. The people, weary of delays and 
indecisive movements, demanded that a general engage- 
ment should be hazarded for the defence of the metropolis. 
Washingion, yielding to their wishes, took a position on 
the eastern bankof Brandywine creek, and in the direction 
of the enemy's route. 

11. On the eleventh of September, the British army 
appeared, and, crossing the creek at several fords, com- 
menced an attack upon the American right, which, after 
a short resistance, gave way. The other divisions, succes- 
sively attacked, gave way in like manner, and the rout 
becoming general, a retreat was ordered to Chester. 

12. Several portions of the American, army, particularly 
a brigade from Virginia, exhibited in this battle great 
firmness and bravery. The misconduct of others rendered 
their bravery unavailing. The American loss amounted 
to twelve hundred ; the British to no more than half that 
number. The Marquis de la Fayette took part in the 
engagement, and was wounded. The next day, the army 
retired to Philadelphia, and soon after to Reading, where 
a quantity of stores had been deposited. The retreat was 
performed without a murmur, although many marched 
without shoes, and slept on the ground without blankets. 
On the 26th of September, general Howe entered Phila- 
delphia in triumph, congress having previously removed 
to Lancaster. 



182 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1776. 

13. The transactions of the contending armies at 
the north, since the termination of the expedition to 
Canada, now demand our attention. The Americans 
halted at Crown Point, the British at St. Johns, and both 
employed the remainder of the summer in buildino^ vessels 
S.n(f making preparations to secure the command of lake 
Champlain. 

14. On the 11th of October, 1776, the American and 
British squadrons met, colonel Arnold, who had been a 
sailor in his youth, commanding the former. After a short 
contest, the enemy, not bein"- then able to bring their whole 
force into action, retired. The next day, they returned to 
the combat, and being greatly superior, d rove the American 
squadron before them, to the head of the lake. A sharp 
action then took place; the officers and men fought 
gallantly, but Arnold losing a part of his force, and per- 
ceiving defeat to be inevitaole, ran the remainder of his 
vessels on shore, and set them on fire. 

1.5. Winter approaching, governor Carlton returned 
with his troops to Canada. General Burgoyne, who had 
served under him duringthe last campaign, made a voyage 
to England to concert a plan for future operati-ons. It was 
determined that a powerful army, departing from Montreal, 
should proceed, by way of lake Champlain, to the Hudson, 
with the view of obtaining, by the co-operation of the 
army at New York, the entire command of that river. 
All communication between the states of New England, 
and the others lying south of them, would thus be pre- 
vented. Either section, alone and unsupported, could, it 
was supposed, be easily subdued ; and the whole strength 
of the nation might then be directed ap'ainst the other. 

16. Nothing was omitted which might insure the success 
of this project. Seven thousand choice troops, to be sent 
from England, were allotted to the service. They were 
supphed with an excellent train of brass artillery, and with 
every thing which could add to their efficiency as an army. 
The commandwas given to Burgoyne,and several officers of 
distinguished reputation were selected to serve under him. 

17. General Schuyler, of New York, a wort.Iiy officer, 
whose talents were solid but not brilliant, had the chief 
command of the northern department. He was indefatiga- 
ble in making preparations for defence ; and such was nis 
zeal in the cause of independence, and such his deserved 
popularity in his native state, that he doubtless accom- 
plished more than any other person could have done. 



1777.] REVOLUTlONARiT WAR. 18a 

Still, at a late period in the spring, the fortifications were 
incomplete, and but few troops or munitions of war were 
collected, 

18. Very early in the season, Burgoyne arrived at Que- 
bec. He immediately despatched colonel St. Leger with 
a party of regulars, tories, and Indians, by the way of the 
St. Lawrence to Oswego, directing him to proceed thence 
to the Mohawk, and join him at Albany. With the main 
army, augmented, in Canada, to ten thousand men, he 
hastened to Ticonderoga, before which he appeared on the 
first of July. On his way, he held a conference, at the 
river Bouquet, with a large number of savages, whom 
British agents had persuaded to join the army. 

19. The garrison of Ticonderoga, which was then com- 
manded by general St Clair, was insufficient to defend it 
against so powerful a force. It was evacuated in the night 
of the 5th, the troops crossing lake Champlain -and re- 
treating towards Castieton, in Vermont The enemy pur- 
eued, and on the morning of the 7th, their van overtook 
and attacked the American rear, under colonels Francis 
and Warner, The action was warm and well contested, 
but other troops arriving to the aid of the British, the 
Americans were compelled to give way, 

20. The retreat now became precipitate and disorderly ; 
the pursuit rapid and persevering. At length the republi- 
can army, diminished in number, exhausted by fatigue, and 
dispirited by misfortunevS arrived, by various routes, at 
fort Edv/ard, on the Hudson, the head-quarters of general 
Schuy?er, These disastrous events spread terror and 
dismay throughout the land. The people, ignorant of the 
weakness of the array, attributed its retreat to cowardice 
or treachery, and trembled at the dangers which menaced 
them from the British, Germans, and savages. 

21. The royal forces, elated by success, proceeded 
through the wilderness towards fort Edward. Their 
progress was slow and toilsome. General Schuyler, on 
their approach, evacuated the fort, and retired across the 
Hudson to Saratoga. Soon after, he descended the river 
to Stillwater ; and, the British continuing to advance, he 
retreated, on the 14th of August, to tiie islands at the 
confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson, a few miles north 
of Troy. About the same time, intelligence was received, 
that St Leger, having penetrated from Oswego to the 
Mohawk, had laid siege to fort Schuyler, situated in the 
present township of Rome 

R 



18i REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1777 

22. The American g-eneral, before leaving fort Edward, 
issued a proclamation calling to his aid the militia of New 
England and New York. Aroused by the danger, multi- 
tudes obeyed his call. Vermont poured forth her daring 
Green Mountain boys ; the other states of New England 
their hardy yeomanry, ardent in the cause of freedom ; 
New York, her valiant sons, indignant at this invasion of 
her territory, and determined to protect their property from 
pillage and destruction. These beset the' invaders on 
every side, impeding their progress, cutting off their sup- 
plies, and fotiguin^ them by incessant attacks. 

23. B'urgoyne, Ending it difficult to transport his pro- 
visions through the wilderness, despatched colonel Baum, 
•»^Mth five hundred Hessians^ to seize a quantity of beef 
and flour which the Americans had collected and deposited 
at Bennington. Fortunately, general Stark, at the head 
©f a party of New Hampshire militia, had just arrived at 
that place, on his way to the main army, and been joined 
by volunteers from the immediate neighborhood. Baum, 
ascertaining their number to be greater than his own, 
halted near Bennington, erected breastworks, and sent 
l>ack for a reinforcement. 

24. In several skirmishes between small detachments, 
the militia were uniformly successful. This sharpening 
their courage, Stark resolved to attack the Yna.\n body. 
On the IGth of August, a fierce and sanguinary battle took 
place. For two hours, the Hessians fought bravely, but 
their works, assaulted by braver troops, were at length 
entered, and most of the detachment either killed or made 
prisoners, 

25. Just after this action had terminated, colonel Brey- 
man arrived with the reinforcement sent to Baum. The 
militia, apprehending no danger, had dispersed in pursuit 
of plunder or the fugitives. By carlessness was nearly 
lost all that by valor had been gained. Happily, at this 
critical juncture, colonel V/a me r arrived from Manchester 
with a continental regiment, and immediately fell upon 
Breyman. The militia, rallying, hastened to his aid. The 
battle continued until sunset, when the enemy retreated, 
and under cover of the night the greater part elfected theii 
escape. 

26. The tide of fortune was now turned. The decisive 
victory at Bennington diffused confidence and joy. The 
friends of independence, before depressed by disaster and 
defeat, were now animated by the prospect, which sud- 



1777.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 185 

■denly burst upon them, of a glorious victory over an arro- 
gant and once dreaded enemy. The greatest zeal and 
activity were every where displayed. Again crov/ds of 
militia flocked to the republican camp. 

27. In a few days, cheering intelligence arrived from fort 
Schuyler, Tlie garrison, under colonels Gansevoort and 
Willetjhad, in the midst of the most discouraging circum- 
etanceSi niade a gallant defence against the forces of St. 
Legcr. General Herkimer, marching with eight hundred 
militia to their relief, fell into an ambuscade, was defeated 
and slain; but a larfjer party was speedily collected^ and 
mimediately despatched, under general Arnold, upon -the 
same service. 

28. The Indians, alarmed by their approach, and fa- 
tigued and disgusted by the protracted labors of the siege, 
threatened toaoandon St Leger, if he would not relinquish 
his enterprise. He reluctaialy consented, and with the 
loss of his baggage and stores retreated to MontreaL 
Burgoyne was thus deprived of Jsis expected co-oj)eration, 
and the militia of tliat part of the states were enabled to 
join the American aruiy, 

29. The disasters which befell this army at the com- 
mencement of the campaign induced congress to recall the 
generals who commanded it, and to appoint, in their places, 
generals Gates, Lincoln, and Arnold- Having the control 
of more abundant and powerful means, they acted with, 
more energy and boldness. Gates, leaving the encamp- 
ment on ttie islands, to which Schuyler had retreated, 
advanced, in the beginning of September, to the neighbor- 
hood of Stillwater. 

30. Burgoyne, after the defeat of Baum, was obliged to 
have recourse, for provisions, to the magaziii9s at fort 
George. The laborious task of transporting them throufyh 
the wilderness to the Hudson being accomplished, he 
moved forward, and, on the 17th of September, encamped 
witliin four miles of the American army. 

31. The next day, the first battle of Stillwater was 
fought. It was begun by skirmishes between the scouting 
parties of the two armies, which were respectively and 
repeatedly reinforced, until nearly the whole of each was 
engaged. Both fought with determined resolution; they 
alternately drove and were driven by each other. A con- 
tinual blaze of fire was kept up. Men, and particularly 
officers, dropped every moment and on every side. Niglit 
put an end to the conflict 



186 REVOLUTIONARY WAR» [1777. 

32. The American army retired to their camp; the 
British lay on their arms near the field of battle. The 
loss of the former was three hundred and nineteen ; that 
of the latter exceeded live hundred. Each claimed the 
viciory; the consequences of defeat were felt by the 
JBritish alone. Their hopes of success were diminished ; 
their Indian alhes, the Canadians, and tories, were, dis- 
heartened and deserted them. 

33. Pressed on all sides, Burgoyne made frequent and 
ure^ent applications to sir Henry Clinton, at New York, for 
aid, and informed him that, in expectation of such aid, he 
would maintain his present j)osition until the i2th of October. 
He diminished the allowance of provisions to his soldiers, 
and having waited until the 7th, without receiving any 
intelligence from Clinton, determined to make another 
trial oY strength with bis adversary. 

34. He made dispositions to commence the action with 
the right wing of his army ; Gates, discovering bis design, 
made a sudden and vigorous attack upon the left. In a 
short time, the whole of both armies were engaged. This 
battle was furious, obstinate, and more bloody than the 
other. Arnold was eminently distinguished for his bravery 
and rashness. Toward night, the enemy, who had fought 
with desperate valor, gave way. A part of their works 
were stormed and taken, and more than two hundred men 
made prisoners. 

35. Darkness put an end to this action also. The 
Americans lay upon their arms near the enemy's lines, in- 
tending to renew the battle the next day; but Burgoyne, 
during the night, withdrew to a stronger position. Gates 
forbore to pursue, believing that a bloodless victory was 
now in his power. 

36. In the mean time, sir Henry Clinton despatched 
general Vaughan with three thousand men, to endeavor to 
relieve Burgoyne. He ascended the Hudson, and on the 
sixth of October, assaulted and took fort Montgomery; 
but instead of hastening forward, he consumed a whole 
week in pillaging and burning Esopus, and other flourish- 
ing villages on the river. He perhaps expected that this 
wanton destruction of propertv would draw off a part of 
the forces under Gates; but it had no other effect than to 
exasperate the inhabitants. 

37. Burgoyne, perceiving that his antagonist was en- 
deavoring to surround him, retreated to the heights of 
t^Jaratoga. The Americans pursued, keeping a sufficient 



1777.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 187 

force on the east bank of the river to prevent him from 
crossing. The situation of the British troops was now 
distressing in the extreme. Many of their most valued 
officers had been killed. Their strength was exhausted 
by incessant exertion; they were almost encircled by 
their enemy, and were greatly annoyed by a continual and 
destructive cannonade. From this forlorn condition but 
one mode of escape remained, a forced march in the night 
to fort George. This expedient was resolved on, and prep- 
arations were made; but the scouts sent out returned 
with intelligence that all the passes were guarded by 
strong bodies of mihtia. 

38. An account of provisions was then taken, and a 
supply for no more than three days was found on hand. No 
hope of rescue within that time could be indulged. Bur- 
goyne summoned his principal officers to a council. It is 
said that while deliberating, a cannon ball crossed the 
table around which they sat. By their unanimous advice, 
he opened a negotiation with the American general, and on 
the 17th of October, surrendered his whole army prisoners 
of war. 

39. Great were the rejoicings occasioned by this glorious 
victory. Many supposed that it would terminate tne con- 
test. In the joy of success, all feelings of resentment 
were forgotten. From regard to the feelings of the van- 
quished, general Gates, while they were piling their arms, 
kept the victorious troops within his camp. The British 
officers, in social converse with the Americans, were led 
to forget their misfortune, and the troops, when on their 
march to Massachusetts, did not receive from the people 
that vindictive treatment which their distressing depre- 
dations, and those of their fellow soldiers under Vaughan, 
would have excused, if not justified. 

40. Against this band of marauders, general Gates 
marched soon after the capitulation was signed; but on 
learning the fate of Burgoyne, they retired to New York. 
About the same time, the garrison left at Ticonderoga, 
having rendered their cannon useless, returned to Canada, 
and the northern department was restored to perfect tran- 
quillity. 

41. While the exertions of the northern army were re- 
warded by brilliant success, that of the south, equally 
brave and meritorious, but enfeebled by the detachments 
which Washington generously spared to Gates, sustained 
distressing reverses. The greatest was at Germantown, 

r 



188 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1777. 

in the vicinity of Philadelphia, where the main body of the 
enemy was stationed. 

42. Upon this body, at sunrise, on the 4th of October, 
the American general made a bold and vigorous attack. So 
sudden and spirited was the onset, that the enemy, unable 
to sustain it, fled, and a complete victory appeared in pros- 
pect. But six British companies, while retreating, threw 
themselves into a large stone house, from which, in entire 
safety, they poured a destructive fire upon the American 
troops. The pursuit was arrested, and much time con- 
sumed in a vain attempt to demolish this fortress. 

43. The fugitives rallied, and turned upon the assailants. 
Confusion followed, and a thick fog, which that moment 
arose, increased it. The different divisions, ignorant of 
the positions and success of the others, uncertain even as 
to their own, acted with indecision and timidity. A retreat 
was therefore directed, and the troops withdrew in good 
order. 

44. In this action, in which fortune snatched victory 
from the grasp of the Americans, they sustained a loss of 
twelve hundred men ; that of the British was less than six 
hundred. But the vanquished sustained no loss of repu- 
tation nor confidence. Their country applauded the bold- 
ness of the attempt, and the enemy felt higher respect for 
their courage and discipline. 

45. The British army soon after left Germantown, and 
marched to attack the American posts on the river Dela- 
ware below Philadelphia. On the 22d of October, a body 
of twelve hundred Hessians, commanded by count Donop, 
made an intrepid assault upon the fortifications at Red 
Bank. They were repulsed with great loss, and their 
gallant leader killed. 

46. Fort Mifflin, on Mud Island, was next attacked. 
For six days it was bravely defended. It was then evac- 
uated, the works having been almost demolished by the 
enemy's artillery. Preparations being made for a second 
assault, with a much larger force, upon the post at Red 
Bank, that was also evacuated, and thus was opened a free 
communication between the British army and their fleet, 
>vhichhad sailed round to the mouth of the Delaware. 

47. After several movements of the respective armies, 
which had no important result, general Washington with- 
drew to winter quarters in the woods of Valley Forge. 
His troops were destitute of shoes, and might have been 
tracked by the blood of their feet. They passed the 



1777.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 189 

winter in huts, suffered extreme distress from want of 
clothing and of food, but endured their privations without 
a murmur. How strong must have been their love of 
liberty 1 With what lively gratitude ought a prosperous 
country, indebted to them for the most valuable blessings, 
to cemember their sufTerings and services ! 



. - CHAPTER XX. 

CAMPAIGN OF 1778. 

While the American armies were contending in the 
field, or suffering in the camp, congress were occupied in 
the performance of duties important to the cause of inde- 
pendence. At first, this body possessed no powers, but 
such as were conferred by the credentials and instructions 
given, by the state legislatures, to their respective dele- 
gates. Early in 1776, a confederation of the states was 
proposed; but until the 15th of November, 1777, all the 
obstacles to the measure could not be surmounted. 

2. The " Articles of confederation," then adopted by 
congress, and subsequently ratified by the several assem- 
blies, bound the states in a firm league of friendship witli 

'each other, for their common defence and the security of 
their liberties. Delegates were to be annually appointed, 
who, when assembled in congress, were authorized to 
carry on war, to make peace, and to exercise the powers 
of sovereignty in relation to foreign nations. They were 
also authorized to determine the number of men, and the 
amonntof money to be raised, and to assign to each state 
its just proportion. 

3. But so unwilling were the states to rehnquish their 
recently assumed independence, that they withheld from 
congress the authority to make laws which should operate 
directly upon the people ; and reserved to themselves the 
sole right of raising their proportions of money in such 
manner as each might deem most expedient. 

4. Congress also eflected a thorough reform of the com- 
missary department, in which scandalous frauds had been 
committed. And in order to introduce a uniform system 
of tactics and discipline, they resolved that an inspector- 
general should be appointed. Subsequently they elected 
to that office the baron Steuben, a native of Prussia, who 



190 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1778. 

had served in a hiffh station in the army of. Frederic the 
Great, and was well versed in the system of.manosuvres 
introduced by that celebrated commander, ' '* * 

5. The signal victory at Saratoga exalted the reputation 
of the confederated states, in every part of Europe. Tlie 
French ministry no longer hesitated to acknowledge tjjeir 
independence. On the 6th of February, they concluded, 
with the American commissioners, treaties of compserce 
and of alliance, in which they generously assented to 
terms highly advantageous to the states. This event,-so 
flattering to the hopes and the pride of the people, occa- 
sioned the liveliest joy, and the most ardent gratitude to 
France, 

6. Among the people of Great Britain, the defeat of 
their favorite general produced astonishment, dismay, and 
indignation. The most brilliant success was anticipated; 
the most ignominious result had occurred. The pride of 
the nation was humbled, and they who had disapproved of 
the war, poured upon the ministry a torrent of mvective. 
To increase the bitterness of their chagrin, tl^ey soon 
learned the course which their hereditary enemy^nd rival 
had resolved to pursue, * 

7. It was now determined, in the cabinet, tog^ant to 
America all that she had demanded, in the beginning of Ihe^ 
contest. An act was passed, declaring that parliaiiiqjitj 
would not, in future, impose any tax upon the coloh!^;« 
and commissioners were sent over, authorized to proclaim ' 
a repeal of all the offensive statutes, and to treat with the 
constituted authorities of America, 

8. The commissioners, arriving at Philadelphia in the 
Fpring, communicated to congress the terms offered by 
Crreat Britain, which were at once unanimously rejected. 
Failing in the use of direct and honorable means, they 
attempted bribery and corruption. To Joseph Reed, a 
general in the army and a member of congress, an offer 
was made of ten thousand pounds sterling, and any office 
within his majesty's gift in the colonies, if he would en- 
deavor to effect a reunion of the two countries. "I am 
not worth purchasing," he nobly replied, "But such as I 
am, the king of Great Britain is not rich enough to do it." 

9. On receiving official notification of the treaties con- 
cluded with her revolted colonies. Great Britian declared 
war against France; and the ministry, presuming th-at 
assistance would be sent them, transmitted orders by the 
commissioners, that Philadelphia should be evacuated, 



1778.J REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 191 

and the royal troops concentrated at New York. The 
execution of these orders devolved upon sir Henry Clinton, 
who, general Howe having resigned, had been appointed 
commander-in-chief. On the 18th of June, the enemy 
quitted the city, and marched slowly eastward. 

10. Washington, leaving his huts in the forest, hung 
upon the rear of he British army, watching for a favorable 
opportunity to offer battle. On arriving at Monmouth, in 
New Jersey, general Lee, who had lately been exchanged, 
was ordered to take the command of five thousand men, 
and, early in the morning of the 28th, unless there should 
be powerful reasons to the contrary, to commence an at- 
tack. He was assured, that the residue of the army 
should follow and give him support. 

11. Lee made dispositions to attack accordingly, but 
perceiving the main body of the enemy returning to meet 
him, he retreated. Washington, advancing to render the 
promised support, saw him retiring, rode forward, and 
addressed him in language implying disapprobation of his 
conduct. He then directed him to form his men on 
ground which he pointed out, and there oppose the prog- 
ress of the enemy. 

12. These orders were executed with firmness. A 
warm engagement ensued, and Lee, when forced from the 
ground, brought offhis troops in good order. Washington, 
at this moment, arrived with the main body of his army, 
which joined in the action, and compelled the enemy to 
fall back to the position from which Lee had been driven. 

13. The day had been intensely hot; it was now almost 
dark, and the troops were much fatigued. Further opera- 
tions were therfore deferred until the next morning. In 
the night, sir Henry Clinton silently left his position, and 
continued his march to New York. His loss amounted to 
near five hundred men ; that of the Americans to three 
hundred. Heat and excessive fatigue proved fatal to 
many. 

14. Lee, irritable and proud, could not forget the manner 
in which Washington had addressed him; and in two 
passionate letters, demanded reparation. A court martial 
was instituted; he was found guilty of misconduct on the 
day of battle, and of disrespect to the commander-in-chief, 
and was suspended from command for one year. He never 
afterwards joined the array, but died in seclusion just be- 
fore the close of the war. 

15. The enemy having entered New York, Washington 



192 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. . [1778. 

conducted his army to White Plains. Congress returned 
to Philadelphia; and in July received, with inexpressible 
joy, a letter from the count d'Estaing-, announcing hig 
arrh'al on the coast of the United Slates, with a large 
fleel, which had been sent, by the king of France, to assist 
them in their struofgle for independence. 

16. The count intended to surprise admiral Howe in 
the Delaware, but adverse winds detained him on the 
passage, until the British fleet had sailed for New York. 
He appeared before the harbor, but on sounding found that 
his largest ships could not enter it. A combined attack, 
by land and water, upon the British forces at Newport, in 
Rhode Island, was projected. 

17. General Sullivan, who had been appointed to com- 
mand the troops, called upon the militia of New England 
to aid him in the enterprise. His army soon amounted 
to ten thousand men, and, as he was supported by the 
fleet, he felt confident of success. On the ninth of 
August, he took a position on the north end of Rhode 
Island, and afterwards moved nearer to Newport. Admi- 
ral Howe, having received a reinforcement, now appeared 
before the harbor, and the count instantly put to sea to 
attack him. 

18. While making the preparatory manosuvres, a furious 
storm came on, which damaged and dispersed both fleets. 
As soon as the weather would permit, each commander 
sought the port from which he had sailed. The army, 
intent upon their own object, witnessed with joy the re- 
turn of the French fleet; and great was their disappoint- 
ment when the count announced his intention of proceed- 
ing to Boston to refit. The American officers remonstrated, 
but he was inflexible, and departed. 

19. The army, deserted by the fleet, could remain no 
longer, with safety, on the island, as the enemy might easily- 
transport by water, large reinforcements from New York 
to Newport. General Sullivan immediately retreated to 
his first position. He was pursued, and, shortly after halt- 
ing, was attacked by the enemy. They were gallantly 
resisted and repulsed with loss. 

20. The next day, the two armies cannonaded each 
other, and the succeeding night the American general, 
deceiving the enemy by a show of resistance to the 
last^ made a skilful retreat to the continent. A few hours 
afterwards, the British received such an augmentation of 
their force, that all resistance, on the part of the Araeri- 



1778.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 193 

cans, would have been vain. At the close of the season, 
the French fleet sailed to the West Indies. 

21. During- this year, the British troops and their allies 
displayed, in several instances, a degree of barbarity sel- 
dom equalled in contests between civilized nations. That 
they were contending against revolted subjects, seemed 
to release them, in their view, from "all regard to the 
common usages of war. The late alliance with France, 

• the hated rival of their nation, increased their hostility. 
Instead of striving to conquer an honorable foe, they 
thirsted as for vengeance on a criminal and outlaw. 

22. With such vindictive feelings, Wyoming, a happy 
and flourishing settlement in Pennsylvania, was attacked 
by a band of tories and Indians. The men were butch- 
ered, the houses burned, and the cattle driven offer killed. 
Those who had been made widows and orphans were 
left without shelter and without food. Seldom has war 
spread distress and ruin over a more delightful region. 
New Bedford, Martha's Vineyard, Eggharbor, and Cher- 
ryvalley, were also visited and ravaged by the enemy. 
Afl the property within reach was destroyed, and multi- 
tudes of peaceful and unoffending inhabitants were reduced 
to poverty and wretchedness. 

23. But in no instance did the enemy evince more 
ferocious, unrelenting cruelty, than in their attack upon 
colonel Baylor's troop of light dragoons. While asleep 
in a barn at Tappan, they were surprised by a party under 

fcneral Grey, who commanded his soldiers to use the 
ayonetonl}^ and to give the rebels no quarter. Incapable 
of defence, they sued for mercy. But the most pathetic 
supplications were heard without awakening compassion 
in the commander. Nearly one half of the troop were 
killed. To many, repeated thrusts were barbarously given 
as long as signs of life remained. Several who had nme, 
ten, and eleven stabs through the body, and were left for 
dead, afterwards recovered. A few escaped, and forty were 
saved by the humanity of a British captain who dared to 
disobey the orders of his general. 

24. Late in the fall, the army under Washington erected 
huts near Middlebrook, in New Jersey, in which they 
passed the winter. In this campaign, but little on either 
side was accomplished. The alliance with France gave 
birth to expectations which events did not fulfil; yet the 
presence of her fleets on the coast deranged the plans of 
the enemy, and induced them to relinquish a part of their 



194 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1779. 

conquests. At the close of the year, it was apparent that 
Great Britain had made no progress in the accomphshment 
of her purposes. 



CHAPTER XXI. 

CAMPAIGN OF 1779 

The campaign of 1779 was distinguished by a change 
of the theatre of war from the northern to the southern 
section of the confederacy. Thither the enemy were 
invited by the prospect of easier victory. The country 
was rendered weat by its scattered population, by the 
multitude of slaves, and by the number of tories inter- 
mingled with the whigs. 

2. Near the close of the preceding year, lieutenant- 
colonel Campbell, with 2500 men, sailed from New York 
to the coast of Georgia, and landed his troops. Marching 
towards Savannah, me capital, he met on his route a small 
body of Americans, whom he defeated, and immediately 
took possession of the city. A detachment from Florida 
under general Prevost invested Sunbury, which, after the 
fall of the capital, surrenrlered at discretion. These were 
the only military posts in Georgia. All the troops that 
could escape retreated into South Carolina. 

3. Soon after the conquest of Georgia, general Lincoln 
took command of the American troops in the southern 
department. In April, leaving South Carolina, he marched 
into the interior of Georgia ; upon which the British army, 
eHtering the state he had left, invested Charleston, the 
capital. Lincoln hastened back to its defence. On hearing 
of his approach, the enemy retired to Stono ferry. Thither 
Lincoln pursued them. An indecisive action was fought ; 
and a few days afterwards, they continued their retreat to 
Savannah. 

4. Theheafofthe season suspended further operations 
until September. Count d'Estaing, with a fleet carrying 
6000 troops, then arrived on the coast The two armies, 
in concert, laid siege to Savannah. At the expiration of 
a month, the count, impatient of delay, insisted that the 
siege should be abandoned, or that a combined assault 
upon the enemy's works should immediately be made. 
Ueneral Lincoln determined upon an assault. Great 



1779.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 195 

gallantry was displayed by the French and American, but 
greater by the British troops. They repulsed the assail- 
ants, killing and wounding nearly a thousand men, and 
sustaining, on their part, but little loss. The count Pulas- 
ki, a celebrated Poliyh nobleman, in the service of the 
states, was mortally wounded. The next day the siege 
was raised, the French returning home, and the Americans 
to South Carohna. 

5. In the midst of these events, general Matthews, 
sailing from New York, conducted an expedition against 
Virginia. On the 10th of May, he took possession of 
Portsmouth without opposition, and ravaged, for two 
weeks, that city and tne adjacent country. The booty 
obtained, and the property destroyed, were of immense 
value. Before the expiration of May, the party returned 
to New York. 

6. Early in the season, colonel Clarke, of Virginia, who 
was stationed at Kaskaskia, on the Mississippi, achieved 
fin enterprise conspicuous for boldness of design, and 
evincing uncommon hardihood in its execution. With 
only one hundred and thirty men, he penetrated through 
the wilderness, to St. Vincents, a British post on the 
Wabash, in the heart of the Indian country. His route 
lay across deep swamps and morasses. For four or five 
miles the party waded through water, often as high as the 
breast. After a march of sixteen days, they reached the 
town, which, having no intimation of their approach, sur- 
rendered without resistance. A short time after, the fort 
capitulated. This fortunate achievement arrested an ex- 
pedition which the enemy had projected against the fron- 
tiers of Virginia, and detached several tribes of Indians 
from the British interest. 

7. The atrocities committed at Wyoming, and at seve- 
ral settlements in New York, cried aloud for vengeance. 
Congress, assembling an army of 4000 men, gave the com- 
mand of it to general Sullivan, and directed him to conduct 
it into the country inhabited by the savages, and retort 
upon them their own system of warfare. Of this army, 
one division marched from the Mohawk, the other from 
Wyoming, and both forming a junction on the Susque- 
hannah, proceeded, on the 22d of August, towards the 
Seneca lake. 

8. On an advantageous position, the Indians, in con- 
junction with 200 tories, had erected fortifications to 
oppose their progress. These were assaulted ; the enemy, 

S 



196 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1779. 

after a slight resistance, gave way, and disappeared in the 
woods. As the army advanced into the western part of 
the State of New York, that region now so fertile and 
populous, the Indians deserted their towns, the appearance 
of which denoted a higher state of civilization than had 
ever before been witnessed in the North American wil- 
derness. The houses were commodious, the apple and 
peach-trees numerous, and the crops of corn then growing 
abundant. All were destroyed; not a vestige of human 
industry was permitted to exist. 

9. Having accomplished this work of vengeance, severe 
but deserved, and essential to the future safety of the 
whites, general Sullivan returned to Easton, in Pennsyl- 
vania, where he arrived about the middle of October. 
His whole loss, by sickness and the enemy, amounted to 
but forty men. 

10. On the first of July, general Tryon sailed from New 
York with a large body of troops, and landing on the coast 
of Connecticut, plundered New Haven, and laid Fairfield 
and Norwalk in ashes. Before his return, general Wiyne, 
with a detachment from the American army, made a daring 
assault upon Stony Point, a strongly fortified post on the 
Hudson. About twelve at night, the troops, with unloaded 
muskets, arrived before the lines. They were received 
with a tremendous discharge of grape-shot and musketry. 
Rushing forward, they mounted the walls, and, using the 
bayonet only, were soon in complete possession of the fort. 

11. A more gallant exploit has seldom been performed; 
and the humanity of the victors was equal to their valor. 
Notwithstanding the devastations in Connecticut, and the 
butchery of Baylor's troop, the scene of which was near, 
not an individual suffered after resistance had ceased. 
Of the enemy, sixty were killed, and upwards of five hun- 
dred made prisoners. The loss of the Americans was 
comparatively small. A gold medal, presented by congress, 
rewarded the heroism of the victor. 

12. In September, a bloody naval battle was fought, 
near the coast of Scotland, in which John Paul Jones 
acquired the reputation of a daring and fortunate comman- 
der. He was a Scotchman by birth, buthad been appointed 
by the American congress, a captain in their navy, and' 
then commanded a squadron fitted out in the ports of 
France. Athalf past seven in the evening, his own ship, 
the Bon Homme Richard, of 40 guns, engaged the Serapis, 
a British frigate of 44. After the action had continued 



1779.1 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 197 

an hour, the two firiVates approached so near to each other 
that Jones, seizing" the opportunity, lashed them together. 
1.3. The battle now became furious, and the carnage 
horrible. The Serapis was on fire not less than ten times ; 
and often both frigates were on fire at the same moment, 
presenting a subume and dreadful spectacle. At length, 
the Alliance, one of Jones's squadron, came to his assist- 
ance; but the two frigates beingfastened together, many 
of her shot struck the Bon Homme Richard. At ten o'clock, 
the Serapis surrendered. Her successful antagonist was 
so shattered, that the crew were obliged to leave her im- 
mediately, and slid soon after sunk. The Pallas, which 
was also one of Jones's squadron, engaged at the same time 
and captured the Countess of Scarborough. The squadron 
with the prizes then sailed for Holland, and arrived there 
in safety. 

14. At the close of the season, the northern army retired 
iuto winter quarters, one division near Morristown, in New 
Jersey, and the other in the vicinity of West Point, an 
important post in the highlands. Here they endured severe 
and constant suffering from cold, and nakedness, and hun- 
ger. Sometimes half the usual allowance, often less, was 
distributed to the troops; and more than once the provis- 
ions were wholly exhausted. 

15. Application for rehef was made to the magistrates 
of the neighborhood, and intimations were given that pro- 
visions, so pressing were the wants of the army, would 
be seized by force, if not furnished voluntarily. The 
magistrates promptly attended to the call. They levied 
contributions arbitrarily from the people, who submitted 
to these exactions with a degree of patriotism equalled 
only by that displayed by the soldiers in the patient en- 
durance of distress. 

16. Derangement in the finances produced these suffer- 
ings. Large sums had been annually raised and expended ; 
and theaDility of the people to pay taxes had progressively 
decreased. To supply deficiences, paper money, to the 
amount of about one hundred and fifty millions of dollars, 
had been issued. This gradually depreciated, and, at the 
close of 1779, thirty dollars m paper were of no more value 
than one in specie. To purchase provisions with this 
money was at first difficult, and then impossible ; and 
congress now found their funds and their credit exhausted. 

17. A change of system was necessary. For the supply 
of the army, each state was directed to furnish a certain 



198 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1780. 

quantity of provisions and forage. Loans were solicited 
from the people, and nearly a million of dollars was raised 
by bills drawn upon the American agents in Europe, in 
anticipation of loans which they had been authorized to 
procure. These expedients afforded but temporary and 
partial relief. 

18. No class of persons suffered more from the depre- 
ciation of paper money than the army, and especially the 
officers. The pay, even of those of the highest grade 
was rendered insufficient to provide them with necessary 
clothing. Discontent began to pervade the whole army. 
It requn-ed all the enthusiastic patriotism which distin- 
guishes the soldier of principle ; all that ardent attachment 
to freedom which brought them into the field ; all the 
mfluence of the commander-in-chief, whom they almost 
adored, to retain in the service men who felt themselves 
cruelly neglected by the country whose battles they fought. 



CHAPTER XXIL 

CAMPAIGN OF 1780. 

The first military operations of the enemy, in the year 
1780, were directed against Charleston, the capital of 
South Carolina. In the beginning of February, sir Henry 
Clinton appeared before that place, at the head of a part 
of his army. The assembly, which was then sitting-, 
delegated to governor Rutledge, a patriot of splendid 
talents, and to his council, "the power to do every thing 
necessary for the public good, except taking away the life 
of a citizen," and adjourned. Armed with this extraordi- 
nary power, he made great exertions to call into action the 
strength of the state, and to place its capital in a posture 
of defence. 

2. The people of the country disregarded his repeated 
calls. Not more than two hundred repaired to Charleston. 
The garrison, commanded by general Lincoln, consisted of 
a body of militia from the country, of the citizens, of one 
thousand North Carolina militia, and of two thousand reg- 
ulars. The number of the enemy, when all their rein- 
forcements had arrived, amounted to nine thousand. 

3. On the 1st of April, the siege was begun in form, by 
the erection of works at the distance of eleven hundred 



1780.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 199 

yards from the city. On the 9th, the fleet, propelled by a 
strong wind, passed the forts on SulHvan's island, without 
stoppTng to return their fire, and gained entire com- 
mand of the harbor. On the 14th, heutenant-colonel 
Tarleton surprised a body of cavalry, w^hich, to preserve a 
communication with the country, had been stationed at 
Monk's Corner. Soon after, bat,Leries were erected nearer 
the city, from which the fire was incessant and destruc- 
tive. 

4. An offer to capitulate was then made; but the British 
commanuer refused to accept the terms proposed. On his 

fart, terms were offered, which were rejected by general 
iincoln. The siege was then pressed with increased 
vigor, and approaches made to within musket-shot of the 
American lines. The soldiers within were often killed at 
their guns by the enemy's marksmen. 

5. The citizens, whose intercession had induced general 
Lincoln to determine to defend the place, perceiving that 
preparations for an assault were in forwardness, and seeing 
no hope of relief or escape, now requested him to accept 
the terms which sir Henry Clinton had proposed. A ne- 
gotiation between the two commanders was, in conse- 
quence, opened, and on the 12th of May, the capitulation 
was signed. 

6. The capital having surrendered, measures were 
adopted to overawe the inhabitants of the country, and 
induce them to return to their allegiance to the king. 
Garrisons were placed in different parts of the state, and 
2000 men were despatched towards North Carolina, to 
repel several parties of militia, who were hastening to the 
relief of Charleston. Colonel Tarleton, making a rapid 
march of one hundred and five miles in fifty-four hours, 
met, at the Waxhaws, and attacked one of these parties, 
commanded by colonel Buford. His force, being superior, 
was soon victorious. The vanquished, ceasing to resist, 
implored for quarter. Their cries were disregarded. Up- 
wards of two hundred and fifty were killed, or too badly 
wounded to be removed from the field. This barous 
massacre spread dismay throughout the country, d gave 
a sanguinary character to future conflicts. 

7. To avoid being treated as enemies, the greater part 
of the inhabitants either gave their parole as prisoners, 
or submitted to become subjects of the king. Sir 
Henry Clinton, afterwards, by proclamation, discharged the 
former from their parole, and called upon all to embody 



200 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1780. 

as militia in tne service of Great Britian. Indignant at 
this dishonorable conduct, which left them only the alter- 
native of fighting for or against their country, multitude?, 
seizing their arms, resolved on a vmdictive war with their 
invaders. 

8. A party, who had taken refuge in North Carolina, 
chose colonel Sumpter their leader. At the head of 
these, he returned to his own state, attacked and defeated 
several scattered detachments from the British army. In 
one engagement, so decisive was his victory, that nine 
only out of nearly three hundred escaped. By a succes- 
sion of gallant enterprises, he reanimated the friends of 
freedom, and a spirit of determined hostility to Great 
Britain was again manifested in every part of the state. 

9. This spirit was cherished by the approach, from the 
north, of 4000 men, principally continentals, under the 
command of general Gates. On their march through a 
sterile country, they endured all the evils and distresses of 
extreme famine. Lord Cornwallis, whom Clinton, on bis 
return to New York, had left commander-in-chief, hasten- 
ed to oppose in person, this victorious general. He 
placed himself at the head of two thousand veteran troops 
who had before been stationed at Camden, on the northern 
border of the state. 

10. On the niglit of the 15th of August, he marched, 
with his whole force, to attack the Americans in their 
camp at Clermont. They, at the same hour, began to 
move towards Camden. The advanced parties met in the 
night, and engaged. In several skirmishes which took 
place, the British obtained the advantage. This made a 
deep impression on the militia, whose spirits were depress- 
ed by gloomy forebodings. 

11. When the morning dawned, the enemy advanced to 
the attack. At the first onset, the Virginia militia fled 
from the field, and their example was followed by others 
The continentals, though left alone to contend with supe- 
rior numbers, maintained the conflict with great firmness 
For a short time, they had the advantage of their opponents, 
but were at length overpowered, and the flight became 
general. 

12. The fugitives wore pursued by Tarleton's legion 
with relentless fury. When all were killed, captured or 
dispersed, the pursuers, with speed unchecked, took the 
route towards Sumpter's encampment. This active par- 
tisan, who had lately been victorious in a skirmish, retreat* 



1780.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 201 

ed precipitately, on hearing of the defeat of Gates. At 
the Catawba ford, supposing he was beyond danger, he 
halted, that his troops, who were fatigued, might repose. 
His sentinels slept at their posts, and the legion rode into 
his camp before preparations could be made for defence. 
Between three and four hundred were killed or wounded. 
The remainder were dispersed int-lie woods; three hun- 
dred prisoners were released ; all the baggage and stores 
fell into the power of the victors. 

13. Again supposing the state to be subdued, Cornwallis 
adopted measures of extreme severity to suppress every 
latent inclination to revolt. He directed that all who, 
having once submitted, had lately given aid to the armies 
of congress, should be deprived of their property and im- 
prisoned ; and that all, who had once borne arms with the 
British, and afterwards joined the Americans, should suffer 
death. In consequence of these orders, several were exe- 
cuted,and many were red uced to poverty and wretchedness. 

14. In these times of confusion and distress, the mis- 
chievous effects of slavery in faciliating the conquest of 
the country, became apparent. As the slaves had no in- 
terest at stake, the subjugation of the states was a matter 
of no consequence to them. Instead of aiding in its de- 
fence, they, by a variety of means, threw the weight of 
their little influence into the opposite scale. 

15. There were yet some citizens, who, in all fortunes, 
adhered with firmness to the cause of independence. Of 
these, in one part of the state, general Sumpter was the 
leader, in another, general Marion. The cavalry of the 
latter were so destitute of the weapons of war, that they 
were obliged to cut their swords from the saws of the 
saw-mills. He was so successful in concealing himself 
in woods and marshes, that the enemy were never able to 
attack or discover him. From these dark retreats he 
often sallied forth, and fell unexpectedly upon parties of 
the enemy, when marching through the countr}^ or posted 
in garrisons to overawe the inhabitants. In one of these 
sallies, he released one hundred and fifty continentals 
captured at Camden. His repeated and successful excur- 
sions preserved afive the spirit of resistance, and his high 
f"jie as a partisan was never tarnished by any violation of 
the laws of war or humanity. 

16. Of those who submitted through fear, or from at- 
tachment to the royal cause, major Ferguson, a British 
officer of distinguished merit, was appointed commander. 



202 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1780. 

He was despatched, by Cornwallis, into the western part 
of North Carohna, where, othe^ tories joining him, his 
force was augmented to 1400 men. An enterprise against 
this party was concerted by the commanders of the mihtia, 
in the adjacent parts of the two Carohnas and Virginia. 
About the 1st of October, they, by great exertions, assem- 
bled 3000 men at Gilbert-town. From these, fifteen hun- 
dred choice riflemen were selected ; who, mounted on the 
best horses, hastened to the attack of Ferguson. 

17. He awaited them on the top of King's mountain. 
The militia, in three divisions, led by colonels Cleveland, 
Shelby, and Campbell, ascended it in different directions. 
These divisions, successively arriving, were each repulsed ; 
but each, when the enemy, by an attack from a different 
quarter, were called from pursuit, returned again to the 
charge. In this manner the action was continued for an 
hour with great spirit. Ferguson was then killed; and 
with him expired the courage of his party. Eight hun- 
dred threw down their arms, and became prisoners. One 
hundred and fifty were killed. Very few of the assail- 
ants fell. 

18. Cornwallis, confident of his ability to subjugate the 
state, had followed Ferguson into North Carolina. Re- 
ceiving notice of his entire defeat, he returned and took 
post at Winsborough. As he retired, Gates, who had 
assembled an army of 1400 men, advanced to Charlotte, 
where he determined to pass the winter. He was soon 
after recalled by congress, and, on the recommendation of 
Washington, general Greene was withdrawn from the 
northern army to take command of the department of the 
south. 

19. By the northern army, which, as has been stated, 
was posted at West Point and Morristown, little more 
was attempted, during the year, than to watch the motions 
of the enemy in New York, and protect the inhabitants 
from their incursions. The troops, unfed, unpaid, and 
unemployed, discovered, at various times, a disposition to 
mutiny. On these occasions, the British commander, by 
means of emissaries sent among them, invited them to 
repair to the city, where he promised them comfort and 
abundance. His invitations were disregarded. Relief 
from distress was all they sought, and when that was ob- 
tained, they cheerefully returned to their duty. 

20. In July, a French squadron under admiral Ternay, 
bringing 6000 troops, commanded by count Rochambeau, 



1780.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 203 

arrived at Rhode Island, which had previously been evac- 
uated by the enemy; they were immediately blockaded 
in the harbor they had entered, by a British lieet. Rein- 
forced by these troops, Washington determined to attack 
New York; the anrly marched testations nearer the city, 
and rejoiced in the hope of being able to accomplish 
soniethmg for their country ; but the arrival from Eng- 
land of another fleet, under admiral Rodney, disconcerted 
the plan which had been formed. 

21. Defeat at the south and disappointment at the 
north overshadowed the land with gloom ; but intelli- 
g-ence that treason had appeared in the American camp 
occasioned amazement and alarm. The traitor was 
Arnold, whom bravery in battle, and fortitude in suffering, 
had placed high in the affections of the people. 

22. Upon the evacuation of Philadelphia, by the enemy, 
in 1778, he was appointed commander of that station. 
Here, indulging in all the pleasures of an expensive equi- 
page and sumptuous table, he contracted debts which he 
was unable to discharge. To extricate himself from 
embarrassment, he made large claims agamstthe govern- 
ment, a portion of which was rejected. He was accused 
of extortion and of misuse of the public money; and for 
these offences was tried by a court martial, and sentenced 
to be reprimanded by the commander-in-chief. 

23. From this moment, he determined to avenge his 
wounded pride and supply his wants, by betraying his 
country. In a letter to a British officer, he signilied his 
change of principle, and his wish to restore himself to the 
favor of his prince, by some signal proof of his repentance. 
And about this time, for a purpose which afterwards too 
plainly appeared, he solicited and obtained the command 
of West Point, the most important post in the possession 
of the American armies. 

24. He immediately opened a correspondence with sir 
Henry Clinton, and proposed to deliver into his power 
the post that he commanded. To agree upon the mode 
of surrender, major Andre, a young man of splendid talents, 
and adjutant-general of the British army, ascended the 
river from New York, and, in the night, at a place near 
the American lines, had an interview with Arnold. Be- 
fore he was prepared to return, the sloop of war which 
brought him was compelled to move down the river. 

25. In this emergency, Andre, disguised as a traveller 
assuming the name of Anderson, and furnished by Arnold 



204 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1780. 

with a pass set out to return by land to New York. 
He passed all the guards and posts without awakening 
suspicion; but was stopped, when near the end of his 
journey, by three of the New York mihtia, whose names 
were Paulding-, Williams, and Vanwart. Supposing them 
to be soldiers of his own army, instead of producing his 
pass, he declared himself a British officer, and desired he 
might not be detained. 

26. On discovering his mistake, he offered them a 
purse of gold and a valuable watch, and promised more 
ample rewards from his government, if they would per- 
mit him to escape. Rejecting, with patriotism worthy 
of all praise, these tempting offers, they conducted him 
to colonel Jameson, who was stationed near the American 
lines. In his boots were found a particular statement of 
the strength of the garrison, and a description of the 
works at West Point. Immediately after he was searched, 
he desired the colonel to inform Arnold that Anderson was 
taken. An express was unwarily despatched with the 
intellig-ence. Arnold, comprehending his danger, made a 
precipitate flight to New York. 

27. Andre, perceiving longer concealment useless, then 
avowed himself to be the adjutant-general of the British 
army. Suspicion being now excited, colonel Jameson 
transmitted to the commander-in-chief, who was not far 
distant, information of all the events which had occurred. 
Washington,hasteningto West Point, made arrangements 
for repelling any attack that might be made. Measures 
of precaution being taken, the fate of the prisoner was next 
to be decided. 

28. His case was referred to a board of officers. Appear- 
ing before them, he related, with apparent frankness, every 
fact concerning himself, but would disclose no'hing which 
might involve others in his misfortunes. All his conduct 
while a prisoner was indicative of nobleness of mind ; but 
the board, constrained by duty, reported that he must be 
considered as a spy, and ought, in conformity with the 
law of nations, to suffer death. 

29. Sir Henry Clinton, by whom he was highly esteemed, 
made every exertion in his power to avert his fate. He 
entreated, remonstrated, and threatened. To have yielded, 
wouldhavebetrayedtimidity and weakness, and encourag- 
ed future treason. Andre suffered an ignominious death, 
with a degree of composure and fortitude which proved that 
be might have acquired distinction and renown, had he not 



1780.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 205 

stooped, in an evil hour, to the commission of an igno- 
minious action. 

30. Arnold received, as the reward of his treachery, 
the sum of 10,000 pounds, and the rank of brigadier-gene- 
ral in the British army. But he was detested by his new 
associates, and his name will be forever synonymous 
with infamy and baseness. In contrast with his, how 
bright shines the fame of the three captors of Andre ! 
They were not then, nor can they ever be, forgotten by a 
country which owes so much to their fidelity. Each 
received the thanks of congress, a silver medal, and a pen- 
sion for hfe, which has been doubled at a subsequent 
season of greater national prosperity. 

31. At the close of the year 1780, the troops of the 
northern army; retired to the winter-quarters which they 
had last occupied. Again they endured distress at which 

Patriotism feels indignant and humanity weeps. The 
arvest had been abundant. Plenty reigned in the land, 
but want in the camp of its defenders. Selfishness had 
succeeded patriotism, lassitude enthusiasm, in the breasts 
of the people, and congress exerted its powers with too 
little vigor to draw forth the resources of the country. 

'32. The soldiers of the Pennsylvania line were station- 
ed at Morristown, in New Jersey. They complained 
that, in addition to sustaining sufferings common to all, 
they were retained in service contrary to the terms of 
their enlistments. In the night of the first of January, 
thirteen hundred, on a concerted signal, paraded under 
arms, and declared their intention of marching to Phila- 
delphia, and demanding of congress a redress of their 
grievances. 

33. The officers strove to compel them to relinquish 
their purpose. In the attempt, one was killed and several 
were wounded. General Wayne presented his pistols, 
as if intending to fire. They held their bayonets to his 
breast; "We love and respect you," said they, "butif 
you fire you are a dead man. We are not going to the 
enemy. On the contrary, if they were now to come out, 
you should see us fight under your orders with as much 
ala'^rity as ever. But we will be amused no longer; we 
are determined to obtain what is our just due." 

34. They elected temporary officers, and moved off" in 
a body towards Princeton. General Wayne, to prevent 
them from plundering the inhabitants, forwarded provisions 
for their use. The next day he followed, and requested 



206 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1781. 

them to appoint a man from each regiment, to state to him 
their complaints. The men were appointed, a conference 
held, but he refused to comply with their demands. 

35. They proceeded in good order to Princeton. Three 
emissaries from sir Henry Chnton, meeting them here, 
made them hberal offers to entice them from the service of 
congress. The offers were instantly rejected, and the 
emissaries seized and confined in strict custody. Here 
they were also met by a committee of congress, and a 
deputation from the state of Pennsylvania. The latter, 
granting a part of their demands, persuaded them to return 
to their duty. The agents of Clinton were then given up, 
and immediately executed as spies. 

36. This mutiny, and another in the Jersey line, which 
was instantly suppressed, aroused the attention of the 
states to the miserable condition of their troops. The 
amount of three months' pay was raised and forwarded to 
them in specie. They received it with joy, as it afforded 
evidence that their country was not unmindful of their 
sufferings. 

CHAPTER XXni. 

CAMPAIGN OF 1781, AND TERMINATION 
OF THE WAR. 

In the spring of 1781, the project of besieging New 
York was again resumed. Requisitions for men and 
stores were made upon the northern states, and, in June, 
the French and American troops, marchmg from their 
respective positions, encamped together on ground contig- 
uous to the city. But reinforcements and supplies arrived 
slowly, and the want of them compelled the troops in the 
field to remain inactive. 

2. Jn the southern department, far different was the 
fortune of the opposing armies. That of which general 
Greene took the command, consisted of but 200u men. 
Nearly one half of these he despatched, under general 
Morgan, into the western section of South Carolina,where 
a BrTtish party, aided by the tories, were plundering and 
murdering the whi^s without mercy and without restraint 

3. Against the American detachment, Cornwallis de- 
epatched Tarleton, with a force considerably superior, and 



1781.] REVOLUl^lONARY WAR, SOT 

a lar^e proportion of it cavalry. Morgan began to retreat, 
butdisdainingtofly from an enemy, and uncertain whether 
he could escape an officer so distinguished as his pursuer 
for the celerity of his movements, he, on the 17th of 
January, halted at the Cowpens, and determined to hazard 
a battle, before his troops became dispirited and fatigued. 

4. Soon after he placed his men, the British van 
appeared in sight. Confident of an easy victory, Tarleton 
rushed to the charge with his usual impetuosity. The 
militia posted in front yielded, as directed by Morgan, to 
the shock ; and the infantry composing the second line 
retreated a few yards. In the ardor of pursuit, the enemy 
were thrown into disorder: the infantry facing about, 
poured upon them a fire as deadly as it was unexpected. 
Their disorder was increased, and a charge with the bay- 
onet completed their overthrow. One hundred of the 
enemy were killed, and five hundred made prisoners. 

5. Seldom has a victory, achieved by so small a number, 
been so important in its consequences. It deprived Corn- 
wallis of one fifth of his force, and disconcerted his plans 
for the reduction of North Carolina. He sought, however, 
to repair, by active exertions, the loss which he had suf- 
fered. Having learned that Morgan, the instant after his 
victory, had marched with his prisoners towards Virginia, 
he determined, if possible, to intercept him, and compel 
him to restore his trophies. 

6. Now commenced a military race which has hardly 
its parallel in history. Each army strove to arrive first 
at tiie fords of the Catawba, from which both were equally 
distant. The American troops endured almost incredible 
hardships. They were sometimes without meat, of.en 
without flour, and always without spirituous Uquors, Many, 
marching over frozen ground without shoes, marked with 
blood every step of their progress. 

7. On the twelfth day after the battle, Morgan reached 
the fords and crossed the Catawba. Two hours after- 
wards, Cornwallis arrived, and, it being then dark, en- 
camped on the bank. In the night, a heavy fall of rain 
made the river impassable. This gave Morgan an oppor- 
tunity to remove the prisoners beyond the reach of his 

{mrsuer. And here he was joined by general Gr&ene,who, 
eaving the main body of his army, with orders to march 
towards Virginia, had ridden, with but two or three attend- 
ants, one hundred and fifty miles for that purpose. 

8. At the end of three days, Cornwallis found means to 

T 



208 REVOLUTIONARY WAR, [1781. 

pass the river. The retreat and pursuit again commenced. 
On the second night, thi Americans reacned a ford on the 
Yadkin. Before all had crossed, the British appeared, 
and a part of the baggage was left in their power. Again 
the two armies lay encamped on the opposite banks, and 
before morning, this river also was made impassable by 
the rain. This second preservation from imminent danger, 
persuaded the Americans that their cause was favored of 
Heaven. 

9. The next day, Green proceeded to Guilford court- 
house, where he was joined by the other division of his 
army. Cornwallis, marching up the Yadkin, crossed at the 
shallow fords near its source. Both armies now started 
for the river Dan, on the borders of Virginia, and distant 
more than one hundred miles. The knowledge that there 
the course must terminate, gave fresh vigor to the troops, 
and a new impulse to their speed. On the fiflh day, the 
American army, having, in the last twenty-four hours, 
marched forty miles, crossed the river in boats which had 
been collected for the purpose ; and scarcely were they 
over, when the British appeared on the opposite shore. 

10. Chagrined that his adversary had thus eluded his 
grasp, Cornwallis wheeled about and marched sullenly to 
Hillsborough. Here many loyalists resorted to his stand- 
ard. Six hundred Virginia militia having, in the mean 
time, joined the American army, Greene determined to 
recross the Dan, and, by his presence in North Carolina, 
support the courage of those who had embraced the cause 
of independence. 

1 1. Cornwallis having detached Tarleton, with his legion, 
to the country on the branches of the Haw river, in order 
to countenance the rising of the loyalists in that neigh- 
borhood, a body of cavalry, under lieutenant-colonel Lee, 
and of militia under general Pickens, were directed to 
march thither and attack him. Lee, who led the van, 
overtook, in a long lane, a band of tories, on their way to 
the enemy. Mistaking him for Tarleton, they expressed 
a lively joy at the meeting, and declared their zealous 
attachment to the royal cause. 

12. Hoping to surprise Tarleton, who was but a mile in 
advance, Lee forbore to correct their error ; but while he 
was endeavoring to pass them, the mihtia came up and 
engaged their rear. Relinquishing his first project, he 
ordered his cavalry to fall upon the tories, who were 
slaughtered without mercy, while protesting they were 



1781.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 209 

"the very best friends of the king'." Between two and 
three hundred were killed. Tarleton, alarmed by the 
firing, retreated instantly to Hillsborough. On his way, 
he cut down a small party of royalists, mistaking them for 
whig militia. 

13. Leaving Hillsborough, Cornwallis next encamped 
near Guilford court-house. Greene, having been still 
further strengthened by several bodiesofmiJitia, pursued 
and offered him battle. On the 15th of March, an en- 
gagement was fought. At the first fire, the North Carulina 
mihtia, who were in the front line, fled. The second line 
was also routed. The con'inentals, who composed the 
third, fought with their usual bravery, and for an hour and 
a half maintained the conflict with great firmness. They 
at length gave way, but retreated in good order, the 
slaughter they had m'ade in the enemy's ranks pre venting 
pursuit. Both sides sustained nearly an equal loss. 

14. This victory, won by a far inferior force, was more 
glorious than advantageous lo the British army. Greene, 
expecting and desiring to be attacked athis place of retreat, 
mack; preparations for a second engagement. Cornwallis, 
far from courting a battle, deemed it prudent to retire to 
Wilmington, near the sea. He was pursued for a few 
days, but so excessive had been the sufferings v:)f the 
Americans, from hunger and fatigue, that many fainted on 
the march, and at Ramsay's mills the army halted to seek 
refreshment and repose. 

15. Afier remaining three weeks at Wilmington, Corn- 
wallis proceeded to Petersburg}!, in Virginia. From 
Ramsay's mills, Greene marched towards Camden, where 
were posted nine hundred men, under the command of 
lord Rawdon. He took a position on Hobkirk's hill, about 
a mile from the British entrenchments. At this position, 
the Americans were attacked on the 25th of April, la 
the beginning of the. action, their bravery gained advan- 
tages which, in its progress, were lost by the premature 
retreat of two companies, occasioned by the death of all 
their officers. At this reverse of fortune, Greene retired 
a few miles from the field, both armies having sustained 
nearly an equal loss. 

16. In April and May, several British posts in South 
Carolina fell into the power of the brave and active 
partizans, who, with small bodies of troops, were ever 

£ resent, where oppression was to be resisted, or glory won. 
larion and Lee invested and took fort Watson. Orange- 



210 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. . [1781. 

burg and fort Motte surrendered to Sumpter. Lee cap- 
tured fort Granby, and Marion drove from Georgetown 
the troops stationed to defend it. None of these posts had 
numerous garrisons, the prisoners being less, in the whole, 
than eight hundred ; but the advantages they had secured 
to the enemy rendered their capture important to the 
American cause. 

17. About the last of May, lord Rawdon retired to 
Monk's Corner, near Charleston, leaving garrisons only at 
Ninety-Six and Augusta. The latter post was besieged 
by Lee, and soon capitulated. Ninety-Six, which was 
much stronger, was invested by the main army. The 
eeige had continued three weeks, and eventual success 
appeared certain, when intelligence arrived ihatlord Raw- 
don, having received a reinforcement from Ireland, was 
approaching, with two thousand men, to the relief of the 
place. All hope was now lost of reducing it by the slow 
operation of a siege. On the 18ih of June, the Americans, 
with great gallantry, made an assault upon the works. 
They were received with no less gallantry by the garrison, 
and repulsed. Greene then retired towards North Caro- 
lina, and three days afterwards lord Rawdon arrived at 
Ninety- Six. 

18. During this year, the inhabitants of the Carolinas 
endured calamity and distress, from whic'hhumanity revolts 
with horror. The country was ravaged and plundered by 
both armies. The people, in sentiment, were about equaUy 
divided. Village was hostile to village, and neighbor to 
neighbor ; and their hostility had been embittered by accu- 
sation and retort, by attack and reprisal, until pillage, 
burning, and murder, became famihar to all. Whenever 
a republican or royalist fell into the power of an adversary, 
he was mstantly sacrificed in revenge of a friend, or to 
gratify political hatred. It is asserted that, in this man- 
ner, thousands were put to death. Each party aimed at 
the extirpation of the other, and the whole country pre- 
sented an unvaried scene of blood and slaughter. But 
censure ought not to rest equally upon the two parties. 
In the commencement of the contest, the British, to terrify 
the people into submission, set an example which thetories 
were quick, but the whigs slow, to follow; and in its prog- 
ress the American generals, and they alone, seized every 
occasion to discountenance such vindictive and barbarous 
conduct. 

19. Lord Rawdon having returned to England, the com- 



1781.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 211 

mand of the British troops, in South Carolina, devolved 
upon lieutenant-colonel Stewart. In the beginning of 
September, he took post at Eutaw. Greene marched 
against him from the High Hills of Santee. Their forces 
were equal, amounting on each side to two thousand men. 
On the 8fh, a battle was fought, more bloody perhaps than 
any which had occurred durino- the war. The attack was 
made by the Americans ; the British, resolute and brave, 
made an obstinate resistance, but were at length driven 
in disorder from the field. 

20. A small number, on their retreat, took possession 
of a large brick house, and others of an adjoining picketed 
garden. From these strong positions, a deadly lire was 
poured upon the Americans, who persisted, for along time, 
m a rash attempt to take them by storm. This check 
enabled the British commander to rally his broken bat- 
talions, and bring them again into action. Greene, de- 
sparing of further success, withdrew his troops, carrying 
with him his wounded and prisoners.. 

21. The loss on both sides was uncommonly great, in 
proportion to the numbers engaged. On the American 
side, the number of killed and wounded amounted to five 
hundred and fifty ; on that of the British, as stated by 
themselves, to almost seven hundred. This sanguinary 
battle was followed by the retreat of the British army 
towards Charleston. The Americans pursued, and, by 
estabhshing a chain of posts at a short distance from that 
city, protected the state from their incursions. 

22. Cornwallis, who left North Carolina in April, arrived 
at Petersburgh, in Virginia, on the 20th of May. He there 
formed a junction with a British detachment, which, com- 
manded at first by Arnold and afterwards by Phillips, had 
previously gained possession of Richmond and. Portsmouth. 
With the force now at his command, he flattered himself 
that he should be able to add this state also to the fist of 
his conquests. 

23. The American troops, stationed in Virginia for its 
defence, were indeed entirely insufficient to oppose any 
effectual resistance. Under their gallant leader, the 
marquis de la Fayette, they accomplished even more than 
was expected ; but were unable to prevent the enemy from 
marching through the country, and destroying much public 
and private property. 

24. From these excursions, Cornwallis was recalled to 
the sea-coast by his commander-in-chief, who, having inter- 

t 



212 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1781. 

cepted a letter from Washington to congress, became ac- 
quainted with the danger which threatened New York. He 
was directed to take a position near the ocean, where his 
army and the fleet might afford mutual protection, until the 
event of the operations of the north should be known. He 
selected Yorktown and Gloucester Point, situated on oppo- 
eite sides of York river, which empties into Chesapeake 
bay. He had an army of more than 10,000 men, and ap- 
plied all his means, with unwearied industry and zeal, to 
fortify these commanding positions. 

25. In the mean time, but little progress had been made 
in the preparations to besiege New York. Of the 6000 
men whom the northern states were required to furnish 
for that purpose, a few hundred only, at the beginning of 
August, had joined the army. On the other hand, the 
enemy in the city had been strengthened by the arrival of 
3000 Germans. In this posture of aifairs, the idea of an 
expedition against Cornwalhs occurred to the commander- 
in-chief. While deliberating on the enterprise, he received 
information that a French fleet, under the count de Grasse, 
with 3000 troops on board, was on the way to America, 
and destined to the Chesapeake. 

26. He hesitated no longer, but determined to conduct 
the. expedition in person. The show of an intention to 
attack New York, was nevertheless preserved. After 
the troops left their respective positions, and crossed the 
Hudson, their march was so directed as to lead sir Henry 
Clinton to believe that it was the object of Washington 
to gain possession of Staten Island, in order to facilitate 
his designs against the city. The despatches he had in- 
tercepted assisted to deceive him, and not until the army 
had crossed the Delaware, and was thus beyond the reach 
of pursuit, did he suspect the real object of his adversary. 

27. He then determined to profit by his absence, or 
recall him, by some daring' enterprise at the north. Giving 
to the traitor Arnold, who nad just returned from Virginia, 
the command of a strong detachment, he sent him against 
New London, a flourshing city situated upon the river 
Thanies, in his native state. Nearly opposite, on a hill 
in Groton, stood fort Griswold, which was then garrisoned 
by militia, hastily summoned from their labors in the 
field. 

28. Against this fort Arnold despatched a part of his 
troops. It was assaulted on three sides at the same mo- 
inent. The garrison, fighting in view of their property 



1781.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 213 

and their homes, made a brave and obstinate resistance. 
By their steady and well-directed fire, marny of the assail- 
ants were killed. Pressing forward with persevering' 
ardor, the enemy entered the fort through the embrasures. 
Immediately all resistance ceased. Irritated by gallantry 
which should have caused admiration, a British officer 
inquired who commanded the fort "I did," said colonel 
Ledyard,"butyou do now," and presented him his sword. 
He seized it, and with savage cruelty plunged it into his 
bosom. This was the signal for an indiscriminate mas- 
sacre. Of one hundred and sixty men composing the 
garrison, all but forty were killed or wounded, and most 
of them after resistance had ceased. Seldom has the 

flory of victory been tarnished by such detestable bar- 
arity. The enemy then entered New London, which 
was set on fire and consumed. The property destroyed 
was of immense value. Perceiving no other object within 
the reach of his force, Arnold led back his troops to New 
York. 

29. The march of Washington was not arrested by this 
barbarous inroad. He pressed forward with the utmost 
speed, the great object in view imparting vigor to his troops. 
At Chester, he received the cheering intelligence, that 
admiral de Grasse had entered the Chesapeake with a force 
sufficiently strong to prevent the escape of the enemy by 
water. On the 2.5th of September, the last division of 
the allied forces arrived at the place appointed for their 
meeting. The whole consisted of 16,000 men, and was 
furnished with a large and powerful train of battering 
artillery. 

30. A body of troops under general de Choise was sta- 
tioned to watch the small garrison at Gloucester Point, 
on the north bank of the river ; and on the 28th the several 
divisions, destined to besiege the main garrison at York- 
town, reached the positions assigned them. On the night 
of the 6th of October, advancing to within 600 yards of 
the enemy's lines, they began their first parallel, and 
labored with such silence and diligence, that they were 
not discovered until morning, when the works they had 
raised were sufficient to protect them. 

31. On the 9th, several batteries being completed, a 
heavy cannonade was begun. Many of the enemy's gu.ns 
were dismounted, and portions of their fortifications laid 
level with the ground. On the night of the 11th, the 
besiegers commenced their second parallel, three hundred 



214 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1781. 

yards in advance of the first. This approach was made 
so ifiiich sooner than was expected, that the men were 
not discovered at their labor, until they had rendered them- 
selves secure from all molestation in front. The fire from 
the new batteries was still more furious and destructive. 

32. From two British redoubts, in advance of their main 
works, and flanking those of the besiegers, the men in the 
trenches v/ere so severely annoyed that Washington re- 
solved to storm them. The enterprise against one was 
committed to an American, that against the other to a 
French detachment. Colonel Hamilton, who led the van 
of the former, made such an impetuous attack, that pos- 
session, was soon obtained, with little slaughter. Retalia- 
tion for the carnage at fort Griswold might have been 
justified. But "the soldiers," said colonel Hamilton, 
"incapable of imitating examples of barbarity, and for- 
getting recent provocation, spared every man that ceased 
to resist." The French detachment was equally brave 
and successful, but, opposed by a stronger force, sustained 
a more considerable loss. 

33. Cornwallis, perceiving no hope of safety but in flight, 
attempted, on the evening of the 16th, to cross over to 
Gloucester, intending to force his way through the troops 
under de Choise, and proceed by rapid marches to New 
York. Before reaching the opposite shore, with the first 
division of his army, a storm dispersed his boats and com- 
pelled him to abandon the project. 

34. On the morning of the 17th, additional batteries 
were completed by the besiegers. The cannonade became 
too powerful to be resisted. The enemy's works were 
sinking rapidly under it, and nearly all their guns were 
silenced. Before noon, Crrnwallis beat a parley, and pro- 
posed that commissioners should be appointed to settle 
terms of surrender. They were accordingly appointed, 
and on the 19th of October, the terms which they had 
agreed upon were ratified by the respective commanders. 

35. The naval force in the harbor was surrendered to 
de Grasse, the garrison to the American general. To the 
garrison, the same terms were granted as had been con- 
ceded to the troops who capitulated at Charleston ; and 
general Lincoln, who was present, was desio-nated by 
Washington to receive the sword of CornwaUis. The 
number of prisoners exceeded seven thousand, of whoia 
nearly three thousand were not fit for duty. 

36. On no occasion during the war, did the American 



1782.1 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 215 

people manifest greater exultation and joy. To the Giver 
of all good, they united in rendering, with grateful hearts, 
thanksgiving and praise for the decisive victory which he 
had enabled them to gain. From the nature and duration 
of the contest, the ai^ctions of many had been so concen- 
trated upon their country, and so intense was their interest 
in its fate, that the news of this brilliant success produced 
the most rapturous emotions, under the operation of which 
some were deprived of their reason, and one aged patriot 
in Philadelphia expired. 

37. The loss of a second entire army extinguished every 
hope, which the people of Great Britain had entertained, 
of the subjugation of their colonies. Their burdens, which, 
although heavy, they had borne with patience, while 
animated by the prospect of success, now pressed with 
intolerable weight. They demanded, witn an almost 
unanimous v Dice, that, an end should speedily be put to a 
hopeless and ruinous war. But the speech of the king to 
parliament, at the opening of the winter session, discovered, 
that his feelings and determination remained unchanged. 
Bearing no portion of the burdens of war, he felt, with 
undiminished force, his reluctance to part with the au- 
thority which he had once exercised over three millions 
of subjects. 

38. But the house of commons, speakingthe sentiments 
of the people, expressed, in energetic language, their dis- 
approbation of all farther attempts to reduce the colonies 
to obedience by force. Lord North, contrary to the wishes 
of his sovereign, then resigned the office of prime minister. 
Another cabinet was formed, who advised the king to 
concede independence to the colonies. Early in the spring 
of 1782, pacific overtures were accordingly made to the 
American government, and both nations desisted from 
hostile m-easures. 

39. Congress had previously appointed John Adams, of 
Massachusetts, a commissioner to treat with Great Britain, 
whenever her government should express a desire for 
peace. He was one of the earliest opposers of parlia- 
mentary encroachment. Actuated by hatred of tyranny 
as well as love of country, he had, before resistance was 
contemplated by others, devoted all the energies of his 
powerful mind to the work of enlightening the people, and 
preparing them for the contest which he foresaw was 
approaching. In the continental congress he was conspic- 
uous for his talents and zeaL Appointed minister to 



216 REVOLUTIONARY WAR. [1783 

Holland, he succeeded in obtaining a loan at Amsterdam, 
when the resources of his country were almost exhausted, 
and in concluding with that republic a treaty of amity and 
commerce. 

40. As colleagues with him, congress now appointed 
Benjamin Franlain, John Jay, and Henry Laurens. The 
first was minister to France. He was beloved by his 
country for the services he had rendered her; and illus- 
trious throughout the world for his inventive genius and 
practical philosophy. John Jay was a native of New York, 
was distinguished for the purity of his moral character, 
and his attachment to the rights of mankind. He had 
long been a member of congress, and was then the repre- 
sentative of the United btates at the Spanish court. 
Henry Laurens was a citizen of South Carolina, had been 
president of congress, had been appointed minister to 
Holland, but when crossing the ocean, was captured by a 
British cruiser, and confined, on a charge of treason, to the 
tower of London. In the endurance of sufferings in his 
country's cause, he displayed a character formed after the 
models of antiquity. 

41. To negotiate with these, Mr. Oswald was appointed 
on the part of Great Britain. The conferences were held 
at Paris, where, in November, 1782, preliminary articles 
were agreed upon. These were to form the basis of a 
definitive treaty, the conclusion of which was deferred 
until peace should take place between France, .the ally of 
the United States, 'and Great Britain. That event oc- 
curred on the third day of December, 1783 ; and, on the 
same day, a definitive treaty between the parent country 
and her late colonies were also signed. 

42. The provisions of the treaty attest the zeal and 
ability of the American negotiators, as well as the liberal 
feelings which actuated the new British ministry. The 
independence of the United States was fully acknowledged. 
The right of fishing on the banks of Newfoundland, and 
certain facilities in the enjoyment of that right, were 
secured to them forever; and territory was ceded to them 
more extensive than the most sanguine had dared to anti- 
cipate or to hope. The treaty, r ontrary to the instruc- 
tions of congress, was concluded' vvithout consulting the 
French ministry, some of our comRnissioners having been 
led to suspect that the former weriB endeavoring, secretly, 
10 obtain for France a participation in the fisheries, and 
for Spain the territory on the Mis sissippi. 



]1783.] REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 217 

43. While the negotiations were pending-, the American 
troops were retained in service, but remained unemployed 
at their various stations. They saw with pleasure the 
end of their toils approaching, but apprehended that their 
countr}^ when she no longer needed their services, would 
forget witltwhat zeal and fidelity they had been rendered. 
The officers, especially, dreaded that, after having, for 
want of pay, expended their private fortunes, and after 
having exhausted their strength in the performance of 
arduous and protracted services, they should be dismissed 
in poverty, without any secure provision for their future 
support. 

44. In the course of the war, a resolution had been 
adopted by congress, stipulating that the officers, after 
being disbanded, should receive half-pay for life. This 
resofution had never been ratified by the requisite number 
of states, and no safe reliance could therefore be placed 
upon it. In December, 1782, the officers forwarded to 
congress a petition praying that all arrears which were 
due to them might be dischar^jed, and that, instead of half- 
pay for life, a sum equal to five years' full pay should be 
paid or secured to them when disbanded. 

45. The delay of congress to comply with this request 
produced an alarming agitation in that portion of the army 
stationed at Newburgh. An address to the officers was 
privately circulated, written with great ability, and admira- 
t3ly well fitted to work upon those passions which recent 
sufferings and gloomy forebodings had excited in every 
bosom. The writer boldly recommended that, as all the 
applications to the sympathy and justice of congress had 
failed of success, an appeal should be made to their fears. 

46. Fortunately, the commander-in-chief was in camp. 
Though conscious that the officers had just cause of com- 
plaint, he was aware that duty to his country, and even 
friendship for them, required that he should prevent the 
adoption of rash and disorderly expedients to obtain re- 
dress. Calling them together, he, by a calm and sensible 
address, persuaded them to rely still longer upon the dis- 

Eosition of congress to peform for them wnatever the 
mited means of the nation would permit. 

47. In a letter to that body, giving an account of these 
occurrences, he maintained and enforced the claims of the 
officers with such pathos and strength of reasoning, that 
their request was granted. In November, 1783, the 
PATRIOT ARMY was disbanded, and again mingled with 



218 CONFEDERATION. [1786. 

their fellow citizens. In the same month, New York 
was evacuated by the British troops. General Wash- 
ington, taking an affectionate leave of his officers, repaired 
to Annapolis, where congress was sitting, and tnere, at a 
public audience, with dignity and sensibility, resigned 
nis commission as commander-in-chief of th4> American 
armies. Then, with a character illustrous throughout 
the world, he returned to his residence at Mount Vernon, 
possessing the smcere love and profound veneration of his 
countrymen. 



CHAPTER XXIV. 
ADOPTION OF THE CONSTITUTION, 

AND 

V^ASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. 

Independence and peace did not immediately produce 
all the advantages which had been anticipated by an ardent 
and sanguine people. The evils of war were protracted 
beyond its duration. Public and private debts bore heavily 
upon the people,restraining their enterprise and demanding 
all their resources. 

2. Unsupported by the sense of imminent and common 
danger, the articles of confederation were found insufficient 
to accomplish the purposes of a national government. They 
conferred upon congress the power not to raise money, 
but merely to make requisition upon the states. These 
were often disregarded, on authority being given to enforce 
obedience. The revenue was therefore deficient, the 
public creditors were unpaid, and the national securities 
or evidences of debt depreciated so low that they were 
often sold for one eighth of their nominal value. 

3. Neither did these articles confer the power to regulate 
commerce. Congress, therefore, could not make commer- 
cial treaties with foreign nations which would be obligatory 
upon the individual states. Unprotected by treaties, and 
unsupported by countervailing regulations, the American 
mercnants were denied all participation, except on terras 
at once burdensome and degrading, in the commerce of 
the world. The trade between the several States, which 



1786.] CONFEDERATION. 219 

were considered separate and independent sovereignties, 
was also embarrassed by numerous restrictions, producing 
frequent collisions, and diminishing the benefits which 
naturally flow from the unfettered enterprise and industry 
of man. Commerce languished; and from the want of 
its vivifying influence, all the energies of the country were 
dormant. 

4. To remedy these evils, congress applied to the states 
for a grant of the power to regulate commerce, and to 
collect a revenue from it. New York alone refused ; but 
as unanimity was requisite, her single negative defeated 
the project. In the mean time, the distress increased, 
and in Massachusetts, where it was greatest, urged to 
insurrection a portion of the inhabitants. Near the close 
of the year 1786, they assembled to the number of two 
thousand, in the northwestern part of the state, and, choos- 
ing Daniel Shays theirleader, demanded thatthe collection 
of debts should be suspended, and that the legislature 
should authorize the emission of paper money for general 
circulation. 

5. Two bodies of militia, drawn from those parts of the 
Btate where disaffection did not prevail, were immediately 
despatched against them, one under the command of gene- 
ral Lincoln, the other of general Shepard. They were 
easily dispersed ; and afterwards ab andoning their seditious 
purposes, accepted the proffered indemnity of the govern- 
ment. 

6. So early as 1783, John Adams, being then minister 
in Europe, and seeing in what light the American con- 
federation was regarded by foreign nations, suggested to 
congress the expediency of etFectmg a closer union of the 
states, and of conferring more efficient powers upon the 
general government. A conviction of the necessity of 
such a course was also felt by general Washington, and 
most of the distinguished patriots of that period. In Sep- 
tember, 1786, upon the proposition of Mr. Madison, of 
Virginia, a convention of commissioners from five of the 
middle states, was held at Annapolis, for the purpose of 
devising and recommending to the states a uniform system 
of commercial regulations. 

7. These commissioners, after deliberating upon the 
subject, came to the conclusion that nothing short of a 
thorough reform of the existing government should be 
attempted. This opinion was expressed in the report of 
their proceedings, which was laid before congress. That 



220 CONFEDERATION. [1787. 

body adopted, in consequence, a resolution recommendinff 
that a convention of delegates from all the states should 
be held at Philadelphia, for the purpose of revising the 
articles of confederation, and reporting such alterations as 
would render the federal constitution adequate to the exi- 
gencies of government, and the preservation of the union. 

8. With this recommendation all the states, except 
Rhode Island complied; and in May, 1787, the convention 
met. Of this body of venerable and illustrious statesmen, 
George Washington was unanimously elected president. 
They deliberated with closed doors, and at the end of 
four months, agreed upon a constitution for the United 
States of America, which, after being reported to congress, 
was submitted for ratification to conventions holden in the 
respective states. 

9. This constitution, under which the citizens of this 
republic have enjoyed such unexampled happiness and 
prosperity, differs, in many particulars, from the articles 
of confederation. It connects the states more closely 
together, by establishing a general and supreme govern- 
ment composed of three departments, legislative,executive, 
and judicial. 

10. The legislative department consistsof a senate and 
house of representatives, and is styled the congress. The 
members of the house are chosen by the people, and hold 
their offices two years. They are ap!)ortioned among the 
several states, according to the number of inhabitants, as 
ascertained every tenth year by the census, deducting 
two fifths of the slaves. 

11. The senators are the representati-ves of the states, 
in their sovereign capacity, and are chosen by the state 
legislatures, each choosing two. The constitution ordained 
that on assembling at the first session, they should be 
divided, as equally as possible, into three classes. Those 
composing the first class were to hold their offices but two 
years; those composing the second class, four years; 
those composing the third, six years. All subsequently 
chosen were toehold their offices six years, except such as 
should be chosen to supply the places of those who died or 
resigned. Besides their legislative power, they have, in 
concurrence with the executive, a voice m all appoint- 
ments to office, and in the ratification of treaties. 

12. The executive power is vested in a president ap- 
pointed by electors. These electors are chosen in tne 
respective states, in such manner as the different legisla- 



1787.] CONFEDERATION. 221 

tures may prescribe, and are equal in number to the sena- 
tors and representatives from the state in congress. If, 
however, no person receives a majority of the votes of 
these electors, the president is then chosen by the repre- 
sentatives, those from each state having but one vote. 
lie is elected for four years ; but he may be impeached by 
the house, tried by the senate, and, if convicted of mis- 
conduct, may be removed from office. He is commander, 
in-chief of the land and naval forces. He nominates to 
the senate all officers of the general government, and with 
the advice and consent of two thirds of that body, ratifies 
treaties. A vice-president is chosen at the same time, 
and in the same manner, to perform all the duties of 
president when that office is vacant by death, resignation, 
or removal. 

13. To pass a law the house and senate must concur, 
and it is then to be sent to the president, who must approve 
it. If he does not approve it, he must return it with his 
objections; and it must then be agreed toby two thirds 
of both branches. Laws thus enacted are obligatory upon 
the citizens individually, and may be executed by officers 
appointed by the president and senate. Under the con- 
federation, the ordinances of congress operated only upon 
the states, and no efficient mode was provided for enforc- 
ing them. 

14. The constitution confers on congress the power to 
declare war ; to raise and support armies ; to provide and 
maintain a navy; to lay and collecttaxes, duties, imposts, 
and excises ; to regulate commerce; to coin money; and 
all other powers of a general or national character. It 
diminishes, in no respect, the liberty of the citizen, but 
transfers a portion of the powers, previously exercised by 
the state governments, to the government of the union. 

15. The judicial power of the United States is vested 
in a supreme court, and such inferior courts as the congress 
may establish ; and it extends to all cases arising under 
the constitution, the laws of congress, and treaties ; to all 
cases of admiralty and maritime jurisdiction ; to all con- 
troversies between citizens of difl'erent states, and between 
foreigners and citizens: the judges hold their offices during 
good behavior. 

16. The new constitution found opposers as well as 
advocates, and both were equally zealous. The former, 
ardently attached to liberty, imagined that rulers possess- 
ing such extensive sway, such abundant patronage, and 



222 WASHINGTON'S [1789. 

such independent tenure of office, would become fond of 
the exercise of power, and, in the end, arrogant and tyran- 
nical. The latter professed equal attachment to liberty, but 
contended that, to preserve it, an energetic government 
was necessary. They described, with powerful effect, the 
evils actually endured from the inefficiency of the con- 
federation, and demanded that a trial at least should be 
made of the remedy proposed. These took the name of 
federalists, as friendly to a union of the states ; the appel- 
lation of anti-federalists was given to their antagonists. 

17. In the conventions of eleven states, a majority, 
though in some instances a small one, decided in favor of 
its ratification. Provision was then made for the election 
of the officers to compose the executive and legislative 
departments. To the highest station, the electors, by a 
unanimous vote, elected George Washington, illustrious 
for his virtues and military talents. To the second, that 
of vice-president, by a vote nearly unanimous, they ele- 
vated John Adams, who, in stations less conspicuous, had, 
with equal patriotism, rendered important services to his 
country. 

18. The fourth of March, 1789, was the day designated 
for the new government to commence its operations. The 
delays incident to its first organization, prevented the 
inauguration of the president, until the 80th of April. 
The ceremony was witnessed, with inexpressible joy, by 
an immense concourse of citizens. In an impressive 
address to both houses of congrsss, he declared, with 
characteristic modesty, his " incapacity for the mighty and 
untried cares before him," and offered his "fervent suppli- 
cations to that Almighty Being, whose providential aid 
can supply every human defect, that his benediction would 
consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of 
the United States, a government instituted by themselves 
for these essential purposes ; and would enable every 
instrument, employed in its administration, to execute witn 
success, the functions allotted to his charge." 

19. He also expressed his firm conviction, "that the 
foundation of ournational policy would be laid in the pure 
and immutable principles of private morality ; and that 
the pre-eminence of a free government would be exem- 
plified by all the attributes which can win the affections 
of its citizens, and command the respect of the world." 

20. "I dwell," said he, "on this prospect with every 
satisfaction which an ardent love tor my country can 



1790.1 ADMINISTRATION. 223 

inspire; since there is no truth more tlioroughly estab- 
lished, than that there exists, in the economy and course 
of nature, an indissoluble union between virtue and happi- 
ness ; between duty and advantag-e ; between the genuine 
maxims of an honest and mag-naniraous policy, and the 
solid rewards of pubhc prosperity and felicity; and since 
the destiny of the republican model of government is 
justly considered as deeply', perhaps as finally, staked 
on the experiment intrusted to the American people." . 

21. To establish a revenue sufficient for the support of 
government, and for the discharge of the debt contracted 
m the revolutionary war, was the first object of congress. 
For this purpose, duties were laid on the importation of 
merchandise, and on the tonnage of vessels ; and from 
these sources were drawn into the national treasury, 
funds which had before been- collected and appropriated 
by the states on the sea coast. 

"^22. Laws, creating a department of state, of the treas- 
ury, and of war, were enacted; and Mr. Jefferson, Mr. 
Hamilton, and general Knox, appointed secretaries or 
princioals. A national judiciary was constituted and 
organized. A resolve was passed, directing the secretary 
of the treasury to prepare a plan for the support of public 
credit; and amendments to the constitution were pro- 
posed, which were subsequently ratified by the states; 
and whirh, removing many of the objections made to it, 
rendered it acceptable to all. 

23. After the adjournment of congress, the president 
made a tour through New England, where he was re- 
ceived by the inhabitants with an affection bordering on 
adoration. People of all classes crowded to behold the 
man whose virtues and talents exalted him, in their view, 
above the heroes of ancient and modern times; and to 

E resent to him the undissembled homage of their grateful 
earts. But to none did his visit give more exquisite 
pleasure than to the officers and soldiers of the " patriot 
army," who had been his companions in suffering and in 
victory, who were endeared to him by their bravery and 
fidelity in war, and by the magnanimity with which, in 
peace, they endured unmerited neglect and pov^erty. 

24. At the next session of congress, which commenced 
in January, 1790, Mr. Hamilton, the secretary of the 
treasury, made his celebrated report upon the public debts 
contracted during the revolutionary war. Talving an able 
and enlarged view of the advantages of pubhc credit, h^ 

u 



224. WASHINGTON'S [1790. 

recommended that, not only the debts of the continental 
congress, but chose of the states arising from their exer- 
tions in the common cause, should be funded or assumed 
by the general government ; and that provisions should be 
made for paying the interest, by imposing taxes on certain 
articles of luxury, and on spirits distilled within the 
country. 

25. Upon this report an animated debate took place. 
Its recommendations vi^ere opposed by that party who had 
seen or thought they had seen, in the constitution, many 
features hostile to freedom, and who remembered that 
Mr. Hamilton, when a member of the convention, had 
proposed that the president and senate should be ap- 
pointed to hold their offices during good behavior. They 
now expressed their fears, that the assumption of these 
debts would render the government still stronger, by 
drawing around it a numerous and powerful body of pub- 
lic creditors, who, in all its contests with the states or the 
people, would be bound, by the strongest of all ties, that 
of interest, to support it whether right or wrong. This 
party, existing principally in the southern states, and pro- 
fessing an ardent attachment to the equal rights of man, 
took the name of republican. 

26. Mr. Madison proposed, that whenever the public 
securities had been transferred, the highest price which 
they had borne in the market should be paid to the pur- 
chaser, and the residue to the original holder. After an 
eloquent debate, this proposition was rejected. The 
oarty denominated federal, and existing principally in the 
northern states, supported throughout, with great ability 
and force of reasoning, the plans of the secretary ; but on 
taking the vote in the houseof representatives, they were 
rejected by a majority of two. 

27. Afterwards this national measure was connected, 
as is too frequently the case in legislative bodies, with 
one which had excited much local feeling. It was under- 
Btood that, should the seat of government be fixed for ten 
years at Philadelphia, and afterwards permanently at a 
place to be selected on the Potomac, some southern 
members would withdraw their opposition to the funding 
system. A law to that effect was accordingly enacted. 
The former discussion was then resumed. The plans of 
the secretary were adopted in the senate and afterwards 
in the house, two members, representing districts on the 
Potomac, changing their votes. The debt funded amount- 



1791.J ADMINISTRATION. 225 

ed to a little more than seventy-five millions of dollars ; 
upon a part of which three per cent., apd upon the remain- 
der six per cent, interest was to be paid. 

28. The effect of this measure was great and rapid. 
The price of the public paper, which had fallen to twelve 
or fifteen cents on the dollar, suddenly rose to the sum 
expressed on the face of it. This difference was gained, 
in most instances, by purchasers of the securities, who, 
feeling indebted, for this immense accession of wealth, 
to the plans of the secretary, regarded him with enthusi- 
astic attachment. But in others, this wealth, suddenly 
acquired without merit, excited envy and dissatisfaction. 
These joined the republican party; who, fancying they 
were witnessing the fulfilment of their prediction, became 
more active in their opposition. 

29. The recommendation of the secretary to impose 
additional duties, was not acted upon until the next session 
of congress. Those on distilled spirits were proposed in 
order to render the burdens of the inhabitants beyond the 
Alleghany mo';.ntains, where no other spirits were con- 
sumed, equal to those of the inhabitants on the sea coast, 
who consumed most of the articles on which an import 
duty was paid. In the beginning of the year 1791, they 
were laid as proposed. A national bank, recommended 
also by the same otficer, was in the same year incorpo- 
rated. Both measures met a violent opposition from the 
republican party. 

30. When the new government was first organized, 
but eleven states had ratified the constitution. After- 
wards, North Carolina and Rhode Island, the two dis- 
senting states, adopted it; the former in November, 1789, 
the latter in May, 1790. In 1791, Vermont adopted it, 
and applied to congress to be admitted into the union. 
The territory of this state, situated between New Hamp- 
shire and New York, was claimed by both, and both had 
made grants of land within its limits. In 1777, the 
inhabitants, refusing to submit to either, declared them- 
selves independent. Although not represented in the 
continental congress, yet, during the war, they embraced 
the cause of their brethren in the other states, and to 
them their aid was often r^^ndered, and was always 
efficient. Agreeably to their request, an act was now 
pa.ssed, constituting Vermon* one of the members of the 
union. An act was also passed, declaring thatthe district 
of Kentucky, then a part of Virginia, should be admitted 



22G WASHINGTON'S [1792. 

into the union on the first day of June, in the succeeding 

year. 

31. In 1791 was completed the first census or enui.ier- 
ation of the inhabitants of the United States. They 
amounted to 3,921,326, of which number 695,655 were 
slaves. The revenue, according to the report of the 
secretary of the treasury, amounted to 4,771,000 dollars, 
the exports to about nineteen, and the imports to about 
twenty miUions. A great improvement in the circum- 
stances of the people began at this period to be visible. 
The establishment of a firm and regular government, and 
confidence in the men whom they had chosen to administer 
it, gave an impulse to their exertions vi^hich bore them 
rapidly forward in the career of prosperity. 

32. In 1790, a termination was put to the war M^hich, 
for several years, had raged between the Creek Indians 
and the state of Georgia. Pacific overtures were also 
made to the hostile tribes inhabiting the banks of the 
Scioto and tbe Wabash. These being rejected, an army 
of 1400 men, commanded by general Harmer, was de- 
spatched against them. Two battles were fought near 
Chihcothe, in Ohio, between successive detachments 
from this army and the Indians, in which the latter were 
victorious. 

33. Emboldened by these successes, they made more 
vigorous attacks upon the frontier settlements, which 
suffered all the distressing calamities of an Indian war. 
Additional troops were raised, and the command of the 
whole was given to general St. Clair. With near 2000 
men, he marched, in October, into the wilderness. By 
desertion and detachments, this force was reduced to 
fourteen hundred. On the third of November, they en- 
camped a few miles from the villages on the JVliami, 
intending to remain tliere until joined by those who were 
absent. 

34. But before sunrise, the next morning, just after the 
troops were dismissed from the parade, they were attacked 
unexpectedly by the Indians. The new levies, who were 
in front, rushed back in confusion upon the regulars. 
These, who had been hastily formed, were thrown into 
disorder. They, however, with great intrepidity, ad- 
vanced into the midst of the enemy, who retired from 
covert to covert, keeping always beyond reach, and again 
returning as soon as the troops were recalled from pursuit. 
In these charges many brave and experienced officers 



1793.J ADMINIS'J'RATION. 227 

were killed ; the loss of men was also great, and no per- 
manent impression was made upon the enemy. 

35. At length, after a contest of three or four hours, St. 
Clair, whose ill heath disabled him from performing the 
active duties oi commander, determined to withdraw from 
the field the rerrmant of his troops. The instant that the 
directions to retire were given, a disorderly flight com- 
menced. Fortunately for the survivors, the victorious 
Indians were soon recalled from pursuit to the camp, by 
their avidity for plunder ; and the vanquished continued 
their retreat unmolested to the frontier settlements. 

36. In this battle, the numbers engaged on each side 
were supposed to be equal. Of the whites, the slaughter 
was almost beyond example. Six hundred and thirty were 
killed and missing, and two hundred and sixty were wound- 
ed — a loss which proves at once the obstinacy of the 
defence, and the bravery of the assailants. On receiving 
information of this disaster, congress, resolving to prose- 
cute the war with increased vigor, made provision for 
augmenting, by enlistment, the military force of the nation 
to SOOO men. 

37. In the autumn of 1792, general Washington v/aa 
again unanimously elected president of the American 
republic, and in March, 1793, was inducted into office. 
Mr. Adams was re-elected vice-president, in opposition 
to George Clinton, of New York. -In the progress of 
these elections, but little party feeling was exhibited; the 
repose of society was not disturbed, but the citizens raised 
to posts of the highest honor tliose whom their judgments 
and affections designated as the most worthy. 

38. While the Americans, with but little alloy, were 
enjoying, under a government of their own choice, the 
blessings of independence and freedom, the people of 
France, by whose aid these blessings had been acquired, 
were experiencing all the miseries of anarchy. Grievously 
oppressed by institutions originating- in times of ignorance 
and barbarism, they had risen in the majesty of physical 
strength, and declared their determination to be free. 
Against a whole people, aroused by their sufferings to 
demand their rights, what effectua resistance can be 
opposed? Before their energetic exertions, prompted by 
enthusiasm and directed by fatal skiU, their ancieut govern- 
ment crumbled to the dust. 

39. Passing at once from abject slavery to entire liberty, 
their conduct was marked by the most shocking excesses. 



228 WASHINGTON'S [1793 

The mild virtues of their king, alleviating hut slightly the 
evils of despotism, could not save him fi-om that resent- 
ment w^hich consigned to indiscriminate destruction the 
hereditary orders. Himself, his queen, and many thou- 
sands of the nobility and clergy, suffered death on the 
ecaifold. A new government was instituted, having, for 
its fundamental principle, the universal equality of man. 
Its form was often changed, and the reins of authority 
were successively, but unsteadily, held by the temporary 
favorites of an unenlightened and capricious people. 

40. The Americans could not regard with indifference 
this struggle of their allies for freedom.. They considered 
their excesses as the first effects of sudden rehef from 
oppression, and hoped that experience would produce 
sobriety of conduct and reverence for law. They hailed 
the French revolution as the offspring of their own, and 
cherished the flattering expectation that, by the diffusion 
of the principles of liberty, the whole civilized world would 
become partakers of its blessings. 

41. The French people, at the same time, regarded the 
Americans as their brethren, bound to them by the ties of 
gratitude; and when the kings of Europe, dreading the 
establishment of republicanism in her borders, assembled 
in arms to restore monarchy to France, they looked across 
the Atlantic for sympathy and assistance. The new 
government, recalling the minister whom the king had 
appointed, despatched the citizen Genet, of ardent temper 
and a zealous republican, to supply his place. In April, 
1793, he arrived at Charleston, in South Carolina, where 
he was received, by the governor and the citizens, in a 
manner expressive of their warm attachment to his country, 
and their cordial approbation of the change in her insti- 
tutions. 

42. Flattered by his reception, and presuming that the 
nation and the government were actuated by similar feel- 
ings, he assumed the authority of expediting privateers 
from that port to cruise against the vessels of nations who 
were enemies to France, but at peace with the United 
States, a procedure forbidden by the laws of nations, and 
derogatory to the o-overnment of the country. Notwith- 
standing this illegal assumption of power, he received, on 
his journey to Philadelphia, extravagant marks of public 
attachment; and, on his arrival there, "crowds flocked 
from every avenue of the city to meet the republican am- 
bassador of an allied nation." Intoxicated by these con- 



1793.] ADMINISTRATION. 229 

tinued and increased demonstrations of regard, he persisted 
in forming and executing schemes of hostihty against the 
enemies of France. 

43. The British minister complained to the president, 
who, by the unanimous advice of his cabinet, directed Mr. 
Jefferson, the secretary of state, to lay before the minister 
of France the principles which would regulate the conduct 
of the executive in relation to the powers at war. These 
principles forbade the course which Mr. Genet had pur- 
sued. Relying on the popularity of his nation, he attempted 
by insolent and offensive declarations, to drive the president 
from the ground he had taken. He threatened to appeal 
from the government to the people, a measure which other 
agents of the French republic had adopted with success 
in Europe. Here the result was different. The people 
rallied around rulers, having the same interest as them- 
selves. The minister was abandoned by most of his 
friends ; his government, at the request of the president, 
annulled his powers; and fearing to return, he remained 
in the country, a striking example of the imbecility of a 
factious individual among a people confiding in their rulers, 
and contented with theirlot. 

44. This conduct of Mr. Genet, the atrocities commit- 
ted by the French people, and the dreaded danger of their 
example, alienated from them many of the citizens of the 
United States, especially those belonging to the federal 
party. And as the world was then agitated by the mighty 
contest between France and Great Britain — a contest 
which permitted not neutrality of feeling — those who 
became hostile to the former became naturally the friends 
of the latter. To her they were besides attracted by 
identity of origin, by resemblance of institutions, by simi- 
larity of language, by community of laws, of literature, and 
of religion. 

45. The republicans retained an unabated affection for 
the French, whose services they remembered with grati- 
tude, and whose struggles for freedom, against the league 
of European tyrants, engaged all their sympathy. Over 
these two parties, Washington admitting no thought but 
for his own country, watched with anxious solicitude, 
striving to restrain their aberrations, and to temper their 
mutual animosities. 

46. After the defeat of St. Clair by the Indians, in 1791,- 
general Wayne was appointed to command the American 



230 WASHINGTON'S [1795. 

forces. Taking post near the country of the enemy, he 
made assiduous and long protracted endeavors to negotiate 
a peace. Failing in these, he marched against them, at 
the head of three thousand men. On the 20th of August, 
1794, an action took place in the vicinity of one of the 
British garrisons, on the banks of the Miami. A rapid 
and vigorous charge roused the savages from their coverts, 
and they were driven more than two miles at the point of 
the bayonet. Broken and dismayed, they fled without 
renewing the combat. Their houses and cornfields were 
destroyed, and forts were erected on the sitesof the towns 
laid waste. In 1795, a treaty was concluded at Grenville, 
which, long and faithfully observed, gave peace and se- 
curity to the frontier inhabitants, permitting the abundant 
population of the eastern states to spread, with astonishing 
rapidity, over the fertile region north-west of the Ohio. 

47. The tax which had been imposed upon spirits dis- 
tilled within the country, bearing heavily upon the people 
in the western counties of Pennsylvania, produced there 
disaffection and disturbance. All excise taxes, of which 
this was one, being considered hostile to liberty, great 
exertions were made to excite the public resentment 
against those who should willingly pay it, and especially 
against the officers appointed to collect it. In September, 
1791, a large meeting of malcontents was held at Pitts- 
burgh, at which resolutions, encouraging resistance to the 
laws, were passed; and subsequently other meetings were 
held, at which similar resolutions were adopted. Com- 
mittees of correspondence were also appointed to give unity 
of system to their measures, and to increase the number 
of their associates. 

48. A proclamation of the president, exhorting all per- 
sons to desist from illegal combinations, and calling on the 
magistrates to execute the laws, was disregarded. The 
marshal of the state, while serving processes upon delin- 
(juents and offenders, was resisted and fired upon. The 
inspector of the revenue, dreading the indignation of the 
populace, procured a small detachment of soldiers to guard 
his house. These were attacked by a body of five hundred 
insurgents,who, setting fire to several contiguous buildings, 
obliged the soldiers to leave the house, and deliver them- 
selves up. Several individuals, zealous in supporting the 
government,were ordered toquit the country andcompelled 
to obey. An intention was openly avowed of forcibly 



1795.J ADMINISTRATION. 281 

resisting the general government with the view of extort- 
ing a repeal of the offensive laws. The effective strength 
of the insurgents was computed at seven thousand men. 

49. The president, conceiving himself bound by the most 
solemn obligations, " to take care that the laws be faith- 
fully executed," determined to call out a part of the militia 
of Pennsylvania, and the adjacent states, to suppress this 
insurrection. In the autumn of 1794, fifteen thousand 
were detached, and being placed under the command of 
governor Lee, of Virginia, were marched into the disaf- 
fected counties. The strength of this army rendering 
resistance desperate, none was offered, and no blood was 
shed. A few of the most active leaders were seized and 
detained for legal prosecution. The great body of the 
insurgents on submission were pardoned, as were also the 
leaders, after trial and conviction of treason. The govern- 
ment acquired the respect of the people, by this exertion 
of its force, and their affection, by this display of its lenity, 

50. Since the peace of 1783, Great Britain and the 
United States had each incessantly complained that the 
other had violated the stipulations contained in the treaty. 
The former was accused of havmg carried away negroes 
at the close of the revolutionary war; and of retaining in 
ner possession certain military posts situated in the west- 
ern wilderness, and within the limits of the United States, 
in consequence of which the Americans were deprived of 
their share of the fur trade, and the Indians incited to 
make incursions upon the frontier settlements. The latter 
were accused of preventing the lovalists from regaining 
possession of their estates, and iBritish subjects from 
recovering debts contracted before the commencement of 
hostilities. 

51. For the purpose of adjusting these mutual complaints, 
and also of concluding a commercial treaty, Mr. Adams, in 
1785, was appointed minister to London. Great Britain, 
aware that the articles of confederation did not authorize 
congress to bind the states by a commercial treaty, declined 
then to negotiate. After the constitution was ratified, 
ministers were interchanged, and the discussion was 
prosecuted with no little acrimony and zeal. 

52. In 1794, Mr. Jay being then minister from the 
United States, a treaty was concluded, which, in the 
eonng of the next year, was laid before the senate. That 
Dody advised the president to ratify it, on condition that 
an alteration should be made in one of the articles. Its 

V 



232 WASHINGTON'S [1795 

contents having, in the mean time, been disclosed, the 
republican party exclaimed, in intemperate language, 
against most of the stipulations it contained. The partisans 
of France swelled the cry of condemnation. Public 
meetings were held in vario'us parts of the union, at which 
resolutions were passed expressing warm disapprobation 
of the treaty, and an earnest wish that the president would 
withhold his ratification. Such appeared to be the wish 
of a great majority of the people. 

53. General Washington, believing that an adjustment 
of differences would conduce to the prosperity of the 
republic, and that the treaty before him was the best that 
cojld, at that time, be obiained, gave it his assent, in 
defiance of popular clamor. So great was the confidence 
reposed, by the people, in their beloved chief-magistrate, 
that the public sentiment began immediately to change. 
The friends of the treaty not only increased in numbers, 
but gained courage to speak in its defence. And during 
the summer of 1795, the nation was agitated by a zealous 
and animated discussion of its merits. 

54. At the next session of congress, it became a subject 
of consideration in the house of representatives. The 
treaty, its negotiator, and even the president, were viru- 
lently censured,and warmly defended, in a debate which has 
seldom been equalled for its intemperance, its eloquence, 
or its duration. On the final question, a majoriy of three 
voted in favor of the appropriation necessary to carry it 
into effect. The subsequent prosperity of American com- 
merce demonstrates the wisdom of the president's decision. 

55. The conduct of Spain towards the United States, 
had ever been cold and unfriendly. She feared lest the 
principles of liberty and the desire of independence should 
find tlieir way into her contiguous American provinces. 
During the negotiations at Paris, which resulted in peace, 
she secretly exerted her influence to cause the western 
boundaries of the new republic, from the great lakes to 
Florida, to be fixed two or three hundred miles e.ast of the 
Mississippi. To the repeated offers, which were after- 
wards made, to form with her a commercial treaty, and to 
make arrangements respecting the mutual navigation of 
that river, she pertinaciously declined to accede. 

58. When the inhabitants beyond the Alleghany moun- 
tains had become numerous, she denied them access to 
the ocean by the medium of that river, the mouth of which 
was within her province of Louisiana. She intended, 



1795.1 ADMINISTRATION. 233 

perhaps, to show them the importance of that privilege 
by withholding it, and to allure them, by the promiise of 
restoring it, to submit to her authority. The people of 
Kentucky, indignant at the deprivation, laid their com- 
pkints before congress. In bold and forcible language 
they asserted their rights, by the laws of God and of 
nature, to the free use of that noble river, and demanded 
that, at any cost, the acknowledgment of that right should 
be obtained. 

57. At length Spain became involved in a war with 
France. Embarrassed at home, and intimidated by the 
unauthorized preparations which, under the auspices of 
Genet, were making in Kentucky to invade Louisiana, 
she intimated her readiness to conclude a satisfactory 
treaty, should a minister be sent to Madrid for that pur- 
pose. Thomas Pinkney was accordingly appointed. In 
October, 1795, a treaty was signed, securing to the citizens 
of the United States the free navigation of the Mississippi 
to the ocean, and the privilege of landing and depositing 
cargoes at New Orleans. 

58. Thus were adjusted all controversies with two 
European powers, which, while they existed, retarded ihe 
prosperity, and disturbed the tranquility of the country; 
and from which, at different periods, even war was seriously- 
apprehended. In 1795, a treaty was also concluded with 
the regency of Algiers, with which the republic was pre- 
viously at war. It stipulated that the United States, in 
conformity with the practice of other nations, should, as 
the price of peace, pay an annual tribute to the sovereign 
of that country. 

59. Within the last two or three years, several changes 
took place in the important offices of the nation. On the 
first day of the year 1794, Mr. Jetierson resigned the office 
of secretary of state. He had performed the duties of 
that office with extraordinary ability, and to the entire 
satisfaction of the president. Having been minister to 
France at the commencement of the revolution, there he 
became acquainted with its prlmemovers, and, anticipating 
from their exertions the diffusion of the principles of liberty 
and the renovation of the government, was, in the early- 
stages of its progress, its enthusiastic and undisguised 
defender. Of the republican party, he was considered 
the leader, enjoying their highest confidence and warmest 
attachment. He was succeeded by Edmund Randolpli, 
of Virginia. 



234 WASHINGTON'S [1795. 

60. On the last day of January, 1795, Mr. Hamilton 
retired from the office of secretary of the treasury. He 
possessed distinguished talents, and had exerted those 
talents to establish order where all was confusion, and to 
raise from the lowest depression the credit of the country. 
His complete success greatly exalted his reputation, and 
to him the federalists felt a sincerity of attachment 
equalled only by that entertained for Washington. With 
him he had served in the revolutionary war, and had then 
acquired his confidence and aflection, which he ever af.er- 
wards retained. Being the advocate of an energetic 
government, and averse to intrusting much power with 
Uie people, he was peculiarly obnoxious to the republican, 
party. He was accused of partiality to England, and of 
misconduct in office. After the closest scrutiny, his 
official character was acknowledged, by his enemies, to be 
without stain. He was succeeded by Oliver Wolcott, of 
Connecticut. 

61. At the close of the year 1794, general Knox resigned 
the office of secretary of war, and colonel Pickering, of 
Massachusetts, was appointed in his place. In August 
Mr. Randolph, having lost the coniidence of the president, 
and having in consequence retired from the administration, 
Mr. Pickering was appointed his successor in the depart- 
mentof state, and James M 'Henry, of Maryland, was made 
secretary of war. No republican being now at the head 
of any of the departments, many of the leaders of that 

})arty withdrew their support from the administration ; and 
icentious individuals, in their abusive attacks, dared to 
charge even the president with corruption. But the 
confidence of the peojple in his integrity and patriotism 
experienced not the slightest abatement. 

62. The conduct of i ranee towards the American re- 
piiblic continued to be a source of increasing trouble and 
vexation. Mr. Fauchet, the successor of Genet, bore, from 
those by whom he" was deputed, the strongest assurances 
of friendship ; but encouraged and supported by a numer- 
ous party ardently attacked to his nation, he gradually 
assumed towards the administration the tone of remon- 
strance and reproach. He charged it with sentiments of 
hostility to the allies of tlie United States, with partiality 
for their former foes, and urged the adoption of a course 
more favorable to the cause of liberty. 

63. The American government was in fact desirous of 
fulfilling all its duties to France, and of conciliating her 



1796.] ADMINISTRATION. 235 

friendship. Mr. Morris, the minister to Pans, having 
incurred the displeasure of those in power, was recalled 
at their request, and his place supphed by Mr. Monroe of 
Virginia. This gen'Jeman was a repubhcan, and had 
embraced wilh ardor the cause of the French republic. 
He was received in the most respectful manner by the 
convention, who decreed that the flags of the two republics, 
en! wined together, should be suspended in the legislative 
hall, as a mark of their eternal union and friendship. 

64. Mr. Adetwas appointed, soon after, to succeed Mr. 
Fauchet. He brought with him the colors of France, 
which he was instructed, by the convention, to present to 
the congress of the United States. They were received 
by the president with extraordinary ceremonies, transmit- 
ted to congress, and afterwards deposited in the national 
archives. In the house of representatives, a resolution 
was unanimously adopted, expressing the lively sensations 
which were excited by this testimony of the existing sym- 
pathy of the two republics, and their hope, that the bril- 
liant and glorious victories of the French people would 
lead to the perfect establishment of their liberty and 
happiness. 

6j. But France required of the United States more than 
professions and hopes, and more than by treaty she was 
entitled to claim. She wished to^ make them a party in 
the war she was waging with the despots of Europe. 
Failing in this, and jealous of the more intimate relations 
contracted with her enemy, she adopted regulations highly 
injurious toAmerican commerce, directing her cruisers to 
capture, in certain cases, the vessels of the United States. 
In consequence of these regulations, several hundreds, 
loaded with valuable cargoes, were, while prosecuting a 
lawful trade, taken, and the v/hole confiscated. 

66. Believing that the rights of the nation were not 
asserted and vindicated with sufficient spirit by Mr. Mon- 
roe, the president recalled him, and Charles C. Pinkney, 
of South Carolina, was' appointed in his stead. In the 
summer of 1796, he left the United States, instructed to 
use every effort compatible with national honor, to restore 
the amicable relations which had once subsisted between 
the sister republics. 

67. General Washington having, at the sacrifice of his 
own predilections, devoted a great portion of his life to 
his country; having successfully conducted its armies 
through an arduous conflict for existence ; and having 

V 



236 WASHINGTON'S ADMINISTRATION. [1796. 

fince directed its course through the most critical period 
of an experiment under a free constitution, determined to 
retire to the enjoyment of domestic happiness and rural 
quiet. In September, he announced this determination to 
his fellow citizens, and feehng for them all the solicitude 
of a father for his children, he published at the same time 
a farewell address. 

68. From long experience, he had acquired an intimate 
acquaintance with the dangers to which tlie liberties of 
the rebublic were exposed. These he deprecated, and 
warned his countrymen to shun, with all the impressive 
energy of conviction, and all the ardor of parental affection. 
He besought them, especially, to frown indignantly upon 
the first dawning of any attempt at a separation of the 
union ; to discardlocal attachments and sectional animosi- 
ties; to guard against the excessive indulgence of the 
spirit of party, and against cherishing a hatred of particular 
nations, and an affection for others. 

69. This address was read with sentiments of profound 
veneration in every part of the union. Some of the state 
legislatures directed it to be inserted at large in their 
journals, and most of them passed resolutions expressing 
their respect for the author, their high sense of his exalted 
services, and the emotions with which they contemplated 
his retirement from office. 

70. To fill the station from which the father of hia 
country had resolved to retire, the two great political par- 
ties brought forward their chiefs. The federalists, desiring 
that the system of measures adopted by Washington should 
continue to be pursued, and dreading the influence of 
French sentiments and principles, made the most active 
efforts to elect John Adams. The republicans, believing 
their opponents less friendly than themselves to the maxims 
of liberty, and too much devoted to the British nation and 
to British institutions, made equal exertions to elect 
Thomas Jefferson. 

71. The result was the choice of Mr. Adams to be 

f)resident, and Mr. Jefferson to be vice-president. Re- 
eased from public cares, Washington hastened to Mount 
Vernon. Having established his" fame as the greatest 
hero and most distinguished statesman of tlie age, he 
there, devoting his time to the cultivation of an extensive 
farm, added to his titles of renown that of the m©st indus- 
trious and intelligent agriculturalist of his country. 



237 

CHAPTER XXV. 

MR. ADAMS'S, MR. JEFFERSON'S, AND PART 
OF MR. MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 

DJBCl. ABATION OF TVAB. 

Mr. Adams, soon after the commencement of his presi- 
dential term, received from Mr. Pinkney despatches of a 
most disagreeable and alarming nature. The directory, 
then exercising the executive authority in France, had 
refused to accredit him, declaring their determination not 
to receive another minister from the United States, until 
they had fully complied with the demands which had been 
made. He was moreover ordered, by a written mandate, 
to quit the territories of the republic. 

2. Congress were immediately convened, and the de- 
spatches faid before them. Their proceedings indicated a 
love of peace, but also a firm determination to yield to 
no unjust demand. Laws were passed authorizing the 
president, whenever he should deem it necessary, to 
detach eighty thousand men from the militia of the United 
States, providing for an increase of the navy, and for 
augmenting the revenue of the nation. To display to 
France, and to the world, his desire of peace, and to leave 
no means unattempted to preserve it, the president resolved 
to institute another and more solemn mission. General 
Pinkney, John Marshall, and Elbridge Gerry, were accord- 
ingly appointed envoys to the French republic, and were 
instructed, as the first had before been, to seek a recon- 
ciliation as the representatives of a people dreading war 
much, but the sacrifice of honor more. 

3. These also the directory refused to receive. They 
were, however, addressed by persons verbally instructed 
by Talleyrand, the minister of foreign relations, to make 
tnem proposals. In explicit terms, these unofficial agents 
demanded a large sum of money, before any negotiation 
could be opened. To this insulting demand, a decided 
negative was given. A comphance was ne.vertheless 
repeatedly urged, until at length the envoys refused to 
hold with them any further communication. After re- 
maining several months at Paris, pressing in vain to be 
received andheard, two,who were federalists, were ordered 
to leave France, but Mr. Gerry, who was a republican, 
w as permitted to remain, and was invited singly to enter 



238 ADAMS'S [1800 

into discussions relating to the commencement of a nego- 
tiation. 

4. When these events were known in the United States, 
they excited general indignation. The spirit of party ap- 
peared to be extinct. "Millions for defence, not a cent for 
tribute," resounded from every quarter of the union. The 
treaty of alliance with France was declared by congress 
to be no longer in force. Authority was given for captur- 
ing armed French vessels. Provision was made for raising 
immediately a small regular army; and, in case events 
should render it expedient, for augmenting it A direct 
tax and additional internal duties were laid. 

5. To command the armies of the United States, presi- 
dent Adams, with the unanimous advice of the senate, 
appointed George Washington. He consented, but with 
great reluctance, to accept the office, declairing, however, 
thatlie cordially approved the measures of the government 

6. No opportunity was presented of testing the courage 
and skill ot the American troops. At sea a desperate 
action was fought between the frig-ate Constellation, of 38 
gims, commanded by commodore fruxton, andthe French 
frigate L'Insurgente, of 40 ^uns. The latter, although of 
superior force, was captured. The same intrepid officer, 
in a subsequent action, compelled another French frigate, 
of50 guns, to strike her colors; but she afterwards escaped 
in the night 

7. The United States, in arms at home and victorious 
on the ocean, commanded the respect of their enemy. 
The directory made overtures of peace. The president 
immediately appointed ministers, who, on their arrival at 
Paris, found the executive authority in the possession of 
Bonaparte as first consul. They were promptly accredited, 
and in September, 1800, a treaty was concluded satisfac- 
toiT to both countries, 

8. While this negotiation was in progress, the whole 
American people were overshadowed with gloom, by the 
sudden death of the father of his country. On the 14th 
of December, 1799, after an illness of one day only, general 
Washington expired. Intelligence of this event as it 
rapidly spread, produced spontaneous, deep, and unaffected 
grief, suspending every other thought, and absorbing every 
different feeling. 

9. Congress, then in session at Philadelphia, immedi- 
ately adjourned. On assembling the next day, the house 
of representatives resolved, "that the speaker's chair 



1800.] ADMINISTRATION 239 

should be shrouded in black, and the members wear black 
during the session ; and that a joint committee should be 
appointed to devise the most suitable manner of paying 
honor to the memory of the MAN first in war, nrst in 
peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." 

10. The senate, on this melancholy occasion, addressed 
a letter of condolence to the president of the United States. 
" This event," they observed, " so distressing to all our 
fellow citizens, must be particularly heavy to you, Vviio 
have long been associated with himm deeds of patriotism. 
Permit us, sir, to mingle our tears with yours. On this 
occasion it is manly to weep. To lose such a man, at 
such a crisis, is no common calamity to the world. Our 
country mourns a father. The Almighty Disposer of 
human events has taken from us our greatest benefactor 
and ornament. It becomes us to submit with reverence 
to HIM who maketh darkness his pavilion. 

11. "With patriotic pride we review the life of our 
WASHINGTON, and compare him with those of other 
countries who have been pre-eminent in fame. Ancient 
and modern names are diminished before him. Greatness 
and guilt have too often been allied ; but his fame is whiter 
than it is brilliant. The destroyers of nations stood abashed 
at the majesty of his virtues. It reproved the intemperance 
of their ambition, and darkened the splendor of victory. 

12. " Such was the man whom we deplore. Thanks to 
God, his glory is consummated. Washington yet lives on 
earth in his spotless example — his spirit is in heaven. Let 
his countrymen consecrate the memory of the heroic gene- 
ral, the patriotic statesman, and the virtuous sage: let 
them teach their children never to forget that the fruits 
of his labors, and of his example, are their inheritance.^^ 

13. Agreeably to the report of the committee, and the 
unanimous resolves of congress,a funeral procession moved 
from the legislative hall to the German Lutheran church, 
where an oration was delivered by general Lee, a repre- 
sentative from Virginia. The procession was grand and 
solemn, the oration impressive and eloquent. Throughout 
the union similar marks of affliction were exhibited. A 
whole bereaved people appeared in mourning. In every 
part of the republic, funeral orations were dehvered, and 
the best talents of the nation were devoted to an expression 
of the nation's grief. 

14. In pursuance of the law enacted in 1790, a place 
had been selected on the Potomac, a few miles above 



240 JEFFERSONV [1801 

Mount Vernon, for the permanent seat of the national gov- 
ernment Within a district ten miles square, which was 
called the District of Columbia, a city was laid out, to 
which the name of Washington was appropriately given. 
Public buildings having- been erected, the officers of gov- 
ernment removed to that place in 1800, and in November 
of that year, congress, for the first time, there commenced 
its session. 

15. At this period, a presidential election again recurred. 
From the time of the adoption of the constitution, the 
republican party had been gradually increasing in num- 
bers. The two parties being now nearly equal, the prospect 

^f success inspired both with uncommon ardor. The feder- 
alists supported Mr. Adams and general Pinkney; the 
republicans, Mr. Jefferson and colonel Burr. The two 
feitter received a small majority of the electoral votes; 
and as they received also an equal number, the selection 
of one of them to be president devolved upon the house of 
representatives. After thirty-five trials, during which the 
nation felt intense solicitude, Mr. Jefferson was chosen. 
Colonel Burr received the votes of the federalists, and 
lost, in consequence, the confidence of his former friends. 
By the provisions of the constitution, he became, of course^ 
vice-president 

16. The causes which rendered Mr. Adams unpopular, 
and led to a change in the administration, were, his appar- 
ent coldness towards the French revolution ; the charge that 
the federalists generally were partial to Great Britain ; the 
expenditure of money for building a navy and for other pur- 
poses alleged to be impolitic or useless ; the enactment of 
the alien Taw, by which the president was authorized to 
compel suspected foreigners to leave the country, and of the 
sedition law, which provided that the authors and publish- 
ers of false and malicious accusations against the president 
and members of congress should be prosecuted and pun- 
ished. But more effectual than these was the charge that 
Mr. Adams, and the party which supported him, entertain^ 
ed political opinions less favorable to liberty than those of 
the party which opposed him. — By deserting a man so dis- 
tinguished as Mr. Adams for his talents, for his experience 
in political affairs, and for the important services which he 
had rendered to his country in the revolutionary struggle, 
the people showed how jealous they were of the liberty 
they had obtained, and how readil y they were disposed to 
iisten to such charges against the rulers. 



1802.] ADMINISTRATION. 241 

17. The control of the government being now transfer- 
red to the republican party, they, at the next session of 
congress, repealed, afier a long and eloquent debate, a 
law altering the judicial system, which had been passed 
at the close of Mr. Adams's administration. This repeal 
annihilated the otfices of sixteen judges, who had just 
been appointed. At the same session, the internal duties 
were also abolished. 

18. A second census of the people, referring to 1800, 
was completed in 1801. They amounted to 5,319,762, 
having in ten years increased nearly one milhon four hun- 
dred thousand. In the same number of years the exports 
increased from nineteen to ninety-four millions, and the 
reveuue from 4,771,000 to 12,945,000 dollars ! This rapid 
advance in the career of prosperity has no parallel in the 
history of nations, and is to be attributed principally to the 
institutions of the country, which, securing equal privi- 
leges to all, give to the enterprise and industry of all 
free scope and full encouragement. 

19. In 1802, the state of Ohio was admitted into the 
union. It was formerly a portion of the Northwestern 
Territory, for the government of which, in 1787, an ordi- 
nance was passed, bv the continental congress. With 
commendable foresight they provided that slavery, the 
source of weakness, of poverty, and of crime, should 
never exist in that extensive and fertile region. This is 
doubtless one of the causes of the unparalleled rapidity of 
its population. In thirty years from its first settlement, 
the number of its inhabitants exceeded half a million. 
The state of Tennessee, which was previously, a part of 
North Carohna, and Les between that state and the river 
Mississippi, was admitted in 1796. 

20. The right of deposit at New Orleans, conceded to 
the citizens of the United States by Spain, and necessary 
to the people of the western country, had, until this period, 
been freely enjoyed. In October, the chief officer of that 
city prohibited the exercise of it in future. This violation 
of a solemn engagement produced, throughout the states 
of Ohio and Kentucky, indignant clamor and violent 
commotion. In congress, a proposition was made to take 
possession, by force, of the whole province of Louisiana, 
and the injured people of the west were eager for per- 
mission to avenge their wrongs, and to regain their rights, 
by the sword. 

21. A more pacific course was adopted. Knowing 



242 JEFFERSON'S [1804 

that the province had been ceded, although not transferred, 
to France, the president instituted a negotiation to acquire 
it by purchase. In April 1803, a treaty was concluded, 
conveying it to the United States for fifteen miUions of 
dollars. 

22. The territory thus added to the national domain, 
was first discovered by the French, who, in 1699, began a 
eettlement within its limits. It continued a colony of 
that nation until 1762, when it was ceded to Spain. In 
her possession it remained, slowly increasing in popula- 
tion, until October, 1800, when it was retroceded to 
France, and by her was afterwards, as has been related, 
transferred to the United States. The inhabitants, a 
mixture of French and Spaniards, were not numerous. 
Its boundaries have never been defined. They embrace, 
at a moderate estimation, a territory more extensive than 
some of the most powerful European kingdoms, and in 
many parts the soil is exceedingly fertile. Its acquisition 
was considered, by the United States, of the greatest 
importance, as it gave them the entire control of a river, 
which is one of the noblest in the world. 

23. Since the year 1801, war had existed between the 
United States and Tripoli, one of the states of Barbary, 
situated on the coast of the Mediterranean. No memo- 
rable event occurred until 1803, when a large squadron 
under the command of commodore Preble, was despatch- 
ed into that sea. On arriving before Tripoli, captain Bain- 
bridge, in the frigate Philadelphia, of 44 guns, was sent 
into the harbor to reconnoitre. While in eager pursuit of 
a small vessel, he unfortunately advanced so far that the 
frigate grounded, and all attempts to remove her were in 
vam. The sea around her was immediately covered with 
Tripolitan gun-boats, and captain Bainbridge was compel- 
led to surrender. The officers were considered as prison- 
ers of war ; but the crew, according to the custom of Bar- 
bary, were treated as slaves. 

24. At the capture of this frigate, the enemy rejoiced 
and exulted beyond measure. Lieutenant Stephen Deca- 
tur conceived the design of retaking or destroying her. 
Commodore Preble, applauding the spirit of the youthful 
hero, granted him permission to make the attempt. In 
February, 1804, he sailed from Syracuse, in a smaU 
schooner, having on board but seventy-six men, entered 
undiscovered the harbor of Tripoli, and, advancing boldly, 
took a station alongside the frigate. Perceiving the crew 



1805.] ADMINISTRATION. 243 

in consternation, Decatur sprang on board ; his men fol- 
lowed, and with drawn swords rushed upon the enemy. 
The decks were soon cleared, some being killed, and 
others driven into the sea. 

25. A heavy cannonade upon the firigate, from the 
batteries on shore and the corsairs near, was now com- 
menced, and several vessels of war were seen approach- 
ing. She was set on fire and abandoned, none of the 
party being killed, and but four wounded. Throughout 
all the piratical states, this brilliant exploit exalted the 
reputation of the American arms. The president, in 
reward of his address and bravery, promoted heutenant 
Decatur to the rank of post-captain in the navy. 

26. While the squadron remained before Tripoli, other 
deeds of heroism were performed, evincing a love of fame 
and a devotion to country unsurpassed in Grecian or 
Roman story. The events and operations of this war 
shed a lustre upon the American name, gave experience 
and character to the officers, and prepared them to acquire 
greater glory in a contest with a nobler foe. They were 
equalled, however, by an enterprise on land, bold and 
romantic in its conception, and exhibiting, in its execution, 
uncommon address and decision of character. 

27. William Eaton, who had been a captain in the 
American army, was, at the commencement of this war, 
consul at Tunis. He there became acquainted with 
Hamet Caramanly, whom a younger brother had excluded 
from the throne of Tripoli. With him he concerted an 
expedition against the reigning sovereign, and returned 
to the United States to obtain permission and the means 
to undertake it. Permission was granted, the co-operation 
of the squadron recommended, and such pecuniary assist- 
ance as could be spared was afforded. 

28. To raise an army in Egypt, and lead it to attack 
the usurper in his dominions, was the project which had 
been concerted. In the beginning of 1805, Eaton met 
Hamet at Alexandria, and was appointed general of his 
forces. On the 6th of March, at the head of a respecta- 
ble body of mounted Arabs, and about seventy Christians, 
ne set out for Tripoli. His route lay across a desert, one 
thousand miles in extent. On his march, he encountered 
peril, fatigue, and suffering, the description of which 
would resemble the exaggerations of romance. On the 
25th of April, having been fifty days on the march, he 
arrived before Derne, a Tripohtan city on the Mediterra- 

W 



244 JEFFERSON'S [1806. 

nean, and found in the harbor a part of the American 
equadron, destined to assist him. He learnt also that the 
usurper, having received notice of his approach, had 
raised a considerable army, and was then within a day's 
march of the city 

29. No time was therefore to be lost. The next morn- 
ing he summoned the governor to surrender, who returned 
for answer. " My head or yours." The city was assaulted, 
and after a contest of two hours and a half, possession 
gained. The Christians suffered severely and tlie general 
was slightly wounded. Great exertions v^ere immediately 
made to fortify the city. On the 8th of May, it was at- 
tacked by the Fripolitan army. Alihough ten times more 
numerous than Eaton's band, the assailants, after per- 
sisting four hours in the attempt, were compelled to 
retire. On the 10th of June another battle was fought, 
in which the enemy were defeated. The next day the 
American frigate Constitution arrived in the harbor, 
which so terrified the Tripolitans that they fled precipi- 
tately to the desert. 

30. The frigate came, however, to arrest the operations 
of Eaton, in the midst of his brilliant and successful 
career. Alarmed at his progress, the reigning bashaw had 
offered terms of peace, which, being much more favorable 
than had before been offered, were accepted by Mr. Lear, 
the authorized agent of the government. Sixty thousand 
dollars were given as a ransom for the unfortunate Amer- 
ican prisoners, and an engagement was made to withdraw 
all support from Hamet. The nation, proud of the ex- 
ploits of Eaton, regretted this diplomatic interference, but 
the treaty was ratified by the president and senate; and 
thus ended the war in the Mediterranean. 

31. Colonel Burr, having lost the confidence of the re- 
publican party, became, in 1804, a candidate for the office 
of governor of New York; the federalists generally gave 
him their votes, but Mr. Hamilton, considering him an un- 
principled politician, openly opposed his election. The 
choice fell upon the rival candidate. A duel ensued 
between these distinguished individuals, the challenge 
proceeding from Burr. Hamilton was mortally wounded. 
This event produced a strong and lively sensation through- 
out the union. At the next presidential election, which 
occurred in the same year, Mr. Jefferson was elected pres- 
ident, and George Clinton of New York, vice-president, 
the former receiving all but fourteen votes. 



1807.] ADMINISTRATION. 245 

32. Burr, notwithstanding his brilliant talents, now 
sunk, for a lime, into merited obscurity. His future con- 
duct showed, however, that, while unobserved by his fol- 
low citizens, he had not been idle. In the autumn of 1806, 
his movements in the western country attractearne notice 
of government. He had purchased and was building boats 
on the Ohio, and engaging men to descend that river. 
His declared purpose was to form a settlement on the 
banks of the Washita, in Louisiana; but the character of 
the man, the nature of his preparations, and the incautious 
disclosures of his associates, led to the suspicion that his 
true object was either to gain possession of New Orleans, 
and erect into a separate government the country watered 
by the Mississippi and its branches, or to invade, from the 
territories of the United States, the rich Spanish prov- 
ince of Mexico. 

33. From the first moment of suspicion, he was closely 
watched by the agents of the government. At Natchez, 
while on his way to New Orleans, he was cited to appear 
before the supreme court of the Mississippi Territory. But 
he had so enveloped his projects in secrecy, that sufficient 
evidence to convict him could not be produced, and he was 
discharged. Hearing, however, that several persons, sus- 
pected of bein^ his accomplices, had been arrested at New 
Orleans and elsewhere, he fled in disguise from Natchez, 
was apprehended on the Tombigbee, and conveyed a pris- 
oner to Richmond. Two indictments were found against 
him, one charging him with treason against the United 
States, the other with preparing and commencing an ex- 
pedition against the dominions of Spain.. 

34. In August, 1807, he was tried upon those indict- 
ments, before John Marshall, the chief justice of the 
United States. Full evidence of his guilt not being ex- 
hibited, he was acquitted by the jury. The people, now- 
ever, beheved him guiky; and by their desertion and 
contempt, he wss reduced to a condition of the most abject 
wretchedness. The ease with which his plans were de- 
feated, demonstrated the strength of the governmenr, and 
his fate will ever be an impressive warning to those who, in 
afroecounti.^, listen to the suggestions of criminal ambition. 

35. The wars produced by the French revolution con- 
tinued to rage in Europe. The attempts, made by the 
neighboring kings, to compel republican France to resume 
her monarchical institutions, had not only been resisted 
and defeated by her indignant citizens, but they had fol- 



240 JEFFERSON'S [180?. 

lowed home the repelled invaders of their country, and 
had subdued those who began the war with the hope and 
purpose of suiaduing France. The nation had necessarily- 
become a nation of soldiers, and one, more daring and for- 
tunate than the others, had been placed at their head as 
chief of the repubhc. By his extraordinary talents, and 
the vast means subjected to his single will, he acquired 
control over most of the European kingdoms. 

36. England, however, unsubdued and undaunted, had 
become as pre-eminent on the water as France on the land. 
Her powerful navy expelled every hostile navy from the 
ocean, and rode triumphant in every sea. America profit- 
ed from the destruction of the ships and commerce of 
other nations. Being eutral, her vessels carried from 
port to port the productions of France and her dependent 
kingdoms; and also to the ports of those kingdoms the 
manufactures of England. Few ships were found on the 
ocean except those of the United States and Great Britain. 

37. The latter, having always found it impossible to 
man her numerous fleets by voluntary enlistments, had 
been accustomed to resort to impressment, or seizing by 
force her subjects, and compelling them to serve, as sailors 
on board her ships of war. Soon after the peace of 17y3, 
she claimed a right to search for and seize them, even on 
board of neutral "vessels while traversing the ocean. In 
the exercise of this pretended right, citizens of the United 
States, sometimes by mistake and sometimes by desiOT, 
were seized, dragged from their friends, transported to 
distant parts of the world, compelled to perform the de- 
grading duty of British sailors, and to fight with nations at 
peace with their own. Against this outrage upon personal 
liberty and the rights of American citizens, Washington, 
Adams, and Jefferson had remonstrated in vain. The 
abuse continued, and every year added to its enormity, 
until a feeling of resentment was aroused worthy the best 
period of the^oman republic. 

38. But not in this mode only were the rights of the 
United States invaded and their interests sacrificed on the 
ocean. The carrying trade offered a harvest too rich, and 
too tempting to British cupidity, to be long enjoyed unmo- 
lested. American ships, carrying to Europe the produce 
of French colonies, were, in an early stage of the war, 
captured by British cruisers, and condemned by their 
courts as lawful prizes. Several European ports, under 
the control of France, were declared, by British orders in 



1807.] ADMINISTRATION. 247 

council, dated in May, 1806, to be in a state of blockade, 
although not invested with a British fleet, and American 
vessels, attempting to enter those ports, vi'ere also captured 
and condemned. 

39. France and her allies suffered, as well as the United 
States, from these transgressions of the laws of nations. 
Her vengeance fell, not so much upon the belligerent in- 
flicting the injury, as upon the neutral enduring without 
resenting and repelling it. By a decree, issued at Berlin, 
in November, 1808, the French emperor declared the 
British islands in a state of blockade, and of course au- 
thorized the capture of all neutral vessels attempting to 
trade with those islands. From these measures of both 
nations, the commerce of the United States severely 
suffered, and their merchants loudly demanded of the 
government redress and protection. 

40. In June, 1807, an event occurred, which for a time 
concentrated upon one of the rival nations the whole 
weight of popular indignation. The frigate Chesapeake, 
while near the coast of the United States, and unsus- 

£icious of danger, was fired upon from the Leopard, a 
Iritish ship of superior force ; three of her men were 
killed and eighteen wounded. Being unprepared for action, 
she struck her colors, was then boarded by a detachment 
fromth.e Leopard, her crew mustered, and four of them 
forcibly carried off upon the pretence that they were 
British deserters. The truth, upon investigation, was 
ascertained to be, that three of them w^ere citizens of the 
United States, had been impressed by the British, and had 
afterwards escaped from their service. 

41. This insolent attack upon a national ship, — this 
wanton exercise of a claim derogatory to national honor, — 
aroused the spirit of the republic. The distinctions of 
party were forgotten, numerous meetings of the citizens 
were held, and all concurred in the expression of a deter- 
mination to support the government of their country in its 
efforts to obtain, whether by negotiation or war, satisfaction 
for this insulting outrage. 

42. The president, by proclamation, prohibited all British 
ships of war from continuing in or entering the harbors of 
the United States. He sent instructions to the minister 
at London to demand satisfaction for the insult, and security 
against future aggression. He summonedcongress to meet 
and decide what future measures should be adopted. The 
British government promptly disavowing tJie act of its 

w 



243 JEFFERSON'S [1808. 

officer, the hostile feehngs which had been excited began 
to subside ; but delaying to render satisfaction, and refusing 
to adopt adequate measures to prevent a continuance of 
aggression, they were not extinguished nor appeased. 

43. Bonaparte having declared his purpose of enforcing 
with rigor the Berlin decree ; the British government hav- 
ing solemnly asserted the right of search and impressment, 
and having intimated their intention to adopt measures in 
retaliation of the French decree, the president recommend- 
ed to congress that the seamen, ships, and merchandise 
of the United States should be detained in port to preserve 
them from the dangers which threatened them on the 
ocean. A law laying an indelinite embargo was in conse- 
quence enacted. A hope to coerce the belligerent powers 
to return to the observance of the laws of nations, by 
depriving them of the benefits derived from the trade of 
America, was doubtless a concurring motive for passing 
the law. 

44. A few days only had elapsed, when information was 
received, that GreatBritain had prohibited neutrals, except 
upon the degrading condition of paying a tax or tribute to 
her, from trading with France or her allies, comprising 
nearly every maratime nation of Europe. This was fol- 
lowed, in a few weeks, by a decree issued by Bonaparte, 
at Milan, declaring that every neutral vessel, which should 
submit to be visited by a British ship, or to pay the tribute 
demanded, should be confiscated, if afterwards found in 
his ports, or taken by his cruisers. Thus, at the date of 
the embargo, were orders and decrees in existence render- 
ing liable to capture almost every American vessel sailing 
on the ocean. 

45. In the new England states, the embargo, with- 
holding the merchant from a career in which he had been 
highly prosperous, and in which he imagined that he might 
Btul be favored of fortune, occasioned discontent and 
clamor. The federalists, more numerous there than hi 
any other part of the union, pronounced it a measure un- 
wise and oppressive. Those representations, and the real 
and severe distress which the people endured, produced a 
rapid change in thoir political opinions. In a short time, 
a majority became federalists, and opposed with zeal all 
the measures of the government. 

46. In the fall of 1808, a new election of chief magistrate 
took place. Mr Jefferson, believing that no person should 
hold that office more than eight years, and desirous of 



1805.] ADMINISTRATION. 249 

confirming the example of Washington, had previously an- 
nounced his intention to retire to private life. James 
Madison was elected president and George Clinton vice- 
president. 

47. In March, 1809, congress repealed the embargo, 
and substituted a law pronibiting all intercourse with 
France and Great Britain. Bonaparte, in retaliation, 
issued a decree, at Rambouillet, directing that all Ameri- 
can vessels, which were then in the ports of France, or 
might afterwards enter, should be seized and confiscated. 

48. In the non-intercoaxse law, a provision was inserted, 
that if either nation should re-voke her hostile edicts, and 
the president should announce that fact by proclamation, 
then the law should cease to be in force in regard to the 
nation so revoking. In April, Mr. Erskine, the British 
minister at Washington, engaged on the part of his govern- 
ment, that the orders in council, so far as they afiectcd 
the United States, should be withdrawn on the 10th of 
June ; and the president immediately issued the procla- 
mation prescribed in the law. 

49. This arrangement the British ministry refused to 
ratify, declaring that Mr. Erskine had no authority to make 
it. Recalling him, they appointed Mr. Jackson his suc- 
cessor. In a correspondence between this gentleman and 
the secretary of state, the former insinuated that the 
American government knew that Mr. Erskine was not 
authorized to make the arrangement, and knew of course 
that it would not be binding on Great Britain. This 
insinuation was distinctly denied by the secretary, but 
was subsequently repeated, in an offensive manner, by Mr. 
Jackson. He was immediately informed, that, on account 
of his indecorous conduct, no other communications from 
him would be received. He was shortly afterwards re- 
called by his government. 

50. The non-intercourse law expired in May, 1810, when 
a proposition was made equally to both belligerents, that 
if either would revoke its hostile edicts, that law should 
be revived and enforced against the other. In August, 
Bonaparte, by his minister of state, assured Mr. Arm- 
strong, the American envoy to France, that the Berlin 
and Milan decrees were revoked, the revocation to take 
effect on the first day of November ensuing. Confiding 
in this assurance, the president, on the second day of 
November, issued his proclamation, declaring that all 
intercourse with Great Britain was prohibited, and that 
an unrestrained commerce with France was allowed. 



250 MADISON'S [1811 

51. Great Britain havingf expressed a willingness to 
repeal her orders whenever France should repeal her de- 
crees, she was now called upon, by the American envoy, 
to fulfil her engagement. She objected, that the French 
decrees could not be considered as repealed, a letter from 
the minister of state not being, for that purpose, a docu- 
ment of sufficient authority. In answer to this objection, 
proof wa.s presented that the French admiralty courts 
considered them repealed, and that no American vessel, 
altfiough many had entered the ports of France, had been 
subjected to their provisions. Great Britain, however, 
still persisted to enforce her orders. 

52. For this purpose, she had stationed ships of war 
before the principal harbors of the United States. All 
American merchantmen, departing or returning, were 
boarded, searched, and many of them sent to British ports, 
as legal prizes. Impressments too were frequent, and the 
British officers, entertaining exalted ideas of their naval 
strength, and holding in contempt the republican flag, ^ 
exhibited, on all occasions, an extreme insolence of be- 
havior, which nations as well as individuals expose them- 
selves to incur, by long and patient endurance of insult and 
aggression. 

53. In one instance, however, their insolence was de- 
servedly punished. Commodore Rogers, sailing in the 
frigate President, met, in the evening, a vessel on the 
coast of Virginia. He hailed, but instead of receiving an 
answer, was hailed in turn, and a shot was fired wnich 
struck the mainmast of the President. The fire was 
instantly returned by the commodore, and continued for a 
few minutes, when finding his antagonist was of inferior 
force, and that her guns were almost silenced, he desisted. 
On hailing again, an answer was given, that the ship was 
the British sloop of war Little Belt, of 18 guns. Thirty- 
two of her men were killed and wounded, and the ship 
was much disabled. 

54. Mr. Foster, successor to Mr. Jackson, arrived at 
Washington in the summer of 1811, and proposed terms 
of reparation for the attack on the Chesapeake. These 
were a formal disavowal of the act, restoration to the 
frigate of the surviving sailors taken from it, a pecuniary 
provision for those who were wounded, and for the fami- 
nes of those who were killed. These terms were ac- 
cepted by the president. 

55. But the British envoy could give no assurance that 



ADMINISTRATION 251 

nis government was disposed to make a satisfactory 
arran^rement of the subject of impressment, or to repeal 
the orders in rouncil. These orders, on the contrary, 
continued to be en forced with rigor; and on the restoration 
of a free commerce with France, a large number of Ameri- 
can vessels, laden with rich cargoes, and destined to her 
ports, fell into the power of British cruisers. Such was 
now the state of affairs, that the United States suffered 
the evils of war, while Great Britain enjoyed the advan- 
tages. Her cruisers, since 1803, had captured nine 
hundred American vessels. 

56. The patience of the nation was exhausted. Presi- 
dent Madison, early in November, 1811, called congress 
together, laid before them the state of foreign relations, 
and recommended that the republic should be placed in an 
attitude to maintain, by force, its wounded honor and 
essential interests. The representatives of the people, 
whose sentiments and feelings they expressed, determined 
to act in accordance with the views of the president. 

57. Laws were enacted providing for the increase of 
the regular army to 35,000 men ; for the augmentation of 
the naval estabhshment ; empowering the president to 
accept of the services of volunteers, to make a detach- 
ment from the militia, and to borrow eleven millions of 
dollars. It was the expectation of many that Great 
Britain, witnessing these serious preparations, would re- 
cede from the stand she had taken. 

58. Events, however, occurred, while Congress were in 
cession, which considerably diminished this expectation. 
For several years, the Indian tribes residing near the 
remote lakes and the sources of the Mississippi, had dis- 
played symptoms of hostility, murdering a number of 
whites, and robbing others of their property. In the fall 
of 1811, general Harrison, with a small force, was sent 
into their territories, instructed to negotiate if possible, 
but to fight if necessary. On the 6tn of November, he 
arrived at Tippecanoe, their principal town, where he was 
met by Indian messengers, with whom an agreement was 
made, that hostilities should not take place before the next 
morning, and that then an amicable conference should 
be held. 

59. Just before daybreak, the savages, in violation of 
their engagement, made a sudden and furious attack upon 
the troops in their encampment Nothing but tlie pre- 
caution of sleeping in order of battle, on their arms saved 



252 MADISON'S [1812. 

them from tota] defeat. A dreadful slaughter was made, 
but the savages were finally repulsed, dispersed, and their 
town laid waste. A strong belief was entertained, founded 
upon credible testimony, that they had been incited to 
hostility by British agents stationed among them. 

60. In February, 1812, John Henry, who had once re- 
sided in Canada, communicated to the president the fact, 
that in 1809, he had been employed by the governor of 
that province, upon a secret mission to Boston, the 
metropolis of the New England states ; and that he was 
instructed to confer with the disaffected, upon the subject 
of a separation of those states from the union, and their 
forming a political connection with Great Britain. He 
exhibited documents in support of his disclosures, which 
he was led to make, by the neglect of his employer to re- 
ward him for his services. It did not appear that he had 
succeeded in corrupting the fidelity of any individual; bat 
the attempt, in a time of peace, and in the midst of the 
most amicable professions, not only preserved in full force 
but increased the previous irritation. 

61. Congress continued to be employed until the 20th 
of May, in making preparations for war, still cherishing 
the hope that a change of policy in Europe would render 
unnecessary an appeal to arms. On that day, the Hornet 
arrived from London, bringing information that no pros- 
pect existed of a favorable change. On the first of June, 
the nresident sent a message to congress, recounting the 
wrongs received from Great Britain, and submitting the 
question whether the United States should continue to 
endure them or resort to war. 

62. The message was considered with closed doors. 
On the 18th, an act was passed declaring war against 
Great Britain. The measure was decidedly condemned 
by a considerable portion of the citizens, among whom 
were many honest and able men. Exercising the undoubt- 
ed privilege of freemen, they examined, with the severest 
scrutiny, the measures and motives of the administration. 
They asserted that the war was unnecessary, partial, and 
unwise; that it was unnecessary, because, in their opinion, 
a satisfactory adjustment of all disputes might have been 
obtained by further negotiation; that itwas partial, because 
France had given greater provocation, in proportion to her 
means of annoyance, than Great Britain ; that it was un- 
wise, because the nation was not prepared for war ; be- 
cause, by declaring it against almost the only remaining en- 



1812.] ADMINISTRATION. ^a 

emy of France, the United States indirectly but powerfully 
assisted Bonaparte in Iiis design of universal conquest, 
and because the expenses and sufferings it must unavoid- 
ably occasion, would more than counterbalance all the 
advantages sought to be obtained. And many, passing 
the limits of candid and temperate discussion, indulged in 
a virulence of invective of which no government should 
be the object that is not manifestly corrupt. 



CHAPTER XX VL 
CAMPAIGN OF 1812. 

The people of the United States remembered, with 
pride, the patriotism and bravery exhibited by their army 
in the revolutionary war. A long period of peace and pros- 
perity had increased their confidence in their own strength^ 
and the belief was generally entertained, that victory over 
the same foe would now be so much the more certainly 
and easily gained, as the nation was more rich and popu- 
lous. They did not reflect, that peace had impaired the 
military energies of the republic, while their enemy, by 
constant exercise in arms, had acquired, not only additional 
strength, but greater skill to use and apply it. 

2. From the veteran officers, who had acquired fame in 
the former conflict, a selection was made to fill the prin- 
cipal posts in the new army. Henry Dearborn, of Massa- 
chusetts, was appointed major-general and commander-in- 
chief. He was at the battle of Bunker's hill. In the ex- 
pedition against Quebec, he served as a captain under Ar- 
nold. He distinguished himself on these and other occa- 
sions; and at the close of the war bore the commission of 
colonel. He held, for a long time, the office of secretary 
of war, and discharged its duties with exemplary industry 
and skill. Thomas Pinkney, of South Carolina, was also 
appointed major-general. Among the brigadiers were 
Wilkinson, Hull, Hampton, and Bloomfield. 

»3. At the time of the declaration of war, general Hull 
was also governor of the Michigan territory, of which 
Detroit is the capital. On the 12th of July, with two 
thousand regulars and volunteers, he crossed the river di- 
viding the United States from Canada. On the same day, 
he addressed aproclamation to the Canadians, tendering^ 



254 MADISON'S [1812. 

them the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and assur- 
ing them, in a lofty tone, "ihat his force was sufficient 
to break down aiJ opposition," and yet was but the van- 
4juard of one much a^reater. It appeared to be his purpose 
to attack Maiden, and thence proceed to Montreal. 

4. Had the attack been instantly made, success would 
have been hig^hly probable. A month was wasted in ruin- 
ous delay. Distrust and contempt expelled confidence and 
attachment from the breasts of the Canadians. The ar- 
dor of the troops began to cool. Maiden was reinforced ; 
and at this critical moment, information was received that 
Mackinaw, an American post above Detroit, had surren- 
dered to a large body of British and Indians, who were 
rushing down the river in n'. ,ibers sufficient to overwhelm 
the American forces. Puiic struck, general Hull has- 
tened back to Detroit. 

5. General Brock, the commander at Maiden, pursued 
him, with a force superior in number, but composed of 
militia and Indians. On the 14fh of August, hp cjrectcd 
batteries opposite Detroit. The next day, he '• gan a can- 
non-jde upon the American fortifications, wnich was re- 
turned with precision and effect. On ttie 16th, the ene- 
my crossed the river, taking post about three miles above 
the city. Meeting with no res'otance, and hearing that 
some of the American troops were absent, general Brock 
resolved to march directly forward and assault the fort. 

0. The troops, cooi and undaunted, awaited in good 
order the approach of the enemy, anticipating an easy vic- 
tory. To the astonishment of all, general Hull forbade the 
artillery to fire, and hung out a white flag in token of a 
wish to capitulate. A correspondence between the two 
generals was immediately opened, which ended m the 
surrender of the army and of the territory of Michigan. 

7. It is impossible to describe the indignation of the 
soldiers and citizens, when they saw themselves delivered, 
by the authority of one man, into the power of an enemy 
whom they supposed they might easily have conquered. 
Many beUeved him either a traitor or coward. An event 
BO disgraceful, occurring in a quarter where success was 
confidently anticipated, caused throughout the union the 
greatest mortification and amazement. Stung by disap- 
pointment, all united in censuring general Hull. His 
greatest, perhaps his only fault, was want of decision and 
energy. 

8. The people of Ohio and Kentucky were alarmed. 



1812.] ADMINISTRATION. 255 

Nearly ten thousand citizens made a tender of their ser- 
vices, and a part of them, placed under the command of 
general William H. Harrison, marched towards the terri- 
toij of Michig-an. But great and numerous were the 
difnculties encountered; the volunteers were unwiHingto 
submit to the wholesome restraints of discipline ; and 
vi^inter arrived before any important undertaking could be 
accomplished. Several incursions were made into the 
'■' country of the savages, who, instigated by British agents, 
and by a celebrated Indian prophet, and commanded by 
' Tecuraseh, a gallant warrior, had become almost univer- 
I sally hostile. 

I 9. For the purpose of invading Canada in another quar- 
' ter, an army of regulars and militia were assembled on 
I the northern frontier of New York. It was far less nu- 
j merous than the government had anticipated. So happy 
I was the condition of even the poorest class of American 
citizens, that butfewcould be induced to enlist as soldiers. 
And in some of the states the plausible doctrine was main- 
tained, that the ofieers of the general government have 
no power over the militia, until called into service and 
consigned to their authority, by the state executive, and 
that even then they cannot be compelled to march beyond 
the boundary of the republic. Several governors actually 
withheld their militia, when called for" by the president, 
«.nd thus diminished the amount of one species of force 
upon which the general government had relied. 

]0. General Van Rensselaer, of the New York militia, 
being the seinor officer on that frontier, had the command 
of these troops, which were called the army of the centre. 
His head-quarters were at Lewistown, on the river Niag- 
ara, and on the opposite side was Queenstown, a fortified 
British post. The militia displayed great eagerness to be 
led against the enemy, the general determined to cross 
over to Q,ueenstown. The first attempt was defeated by 
tempestuous weather. On the 13th of October, a party, led 
by colonel Van Rensselaer, effected a landing, although 
opposed by a British force stationed on the bank. The 
•colonel was severely wounded, but the troops, under rap- 
tains Ogilvie and Wool, advanced to storm the fort. They 
gained possession, but at the moment of success, general 
Brock arrived, from a neighboring post, with a reinforce- 
ment of six hundred men. These, although the most nu- 
merous, were gallantly driven back by the American troops. 
In attempting to rally them, general Brock was killed. 



258 MADISON'S [1812. 

11. General Van Rensselaer, who had previously cross- 
ed over, now returned tohasten the embarkation of the rear 
division. Those who had lately shown such eagerness to 
meet the enemy, now utterly refused to pass beyond the 
national boundary. He entreated and remonstrated, but 
in vain. Meanwhile the enemy, having received another 
reinforcement, advanced to attack the Americans in the 
fort. A desperate and bloody conflict ensued, of which 
the militia were calm spectators. In the end the British 
were completely victorious. Of one thousand men, who 
crossed into Canada, but few effected their escape. 

12. Soon after, general Van Rensselaer retired from the 
service, and was succeeded by general Alexander Smyth, 
of Virginia. In a turgid addi-ess to the "Men of New 
York,*' he announced that, in a few days, he should plant 
the American standard in Canada, and invited them to 
ghare in the danger and glory of the enterprise. His force 
was increased, by those who obeyed his call, to 4500 men. 
The morning of the 28th of November was assigned as 
the time for crossing. So tardy were the movements of 
the troops, that until afternoon, the first division was not 
ready to leave the American shore. The enemy appeared 
in force on the opposite bank ; a council of officers decided 
that it was inexpedient at that time to cross; and the 
troops were ordered to dobark. They were disappointed 
and dissatiRfiod ; but their clamor was appeased by the 
assurance that another attempt would speedily be made. 

13. The next day, they received orders to be in readi- 
ness to embark on the first of December. But their first 
disappointment had sensibly damped their ardor. At the 
appointed hour, the boats were not ready to move; and 
when ready, but 1500 men were found willing to cross. 
A council of war decided unanimously against proceeding, 
and again the troops were ordered to debark. The plan 
of invading Canada was abandoned for the s&ason. The 
blame of these failures was attributed, by the soldiers, to 
their commander ; and so highly were they exasperated, 
that for several days, his life was in danger from tiieir fury. 

14. The army of the norih, which was under tiie 
immediate command of general Dearborn, was stationed 
at Greenbush, near Albany, and at Plattsburgh, on lake 
Champlain. JPromthe latter post, a detachment marched 
a short distance into Canada, surprised a small body of 
British and Indians, and destroyed a considerable quantity 
of pubhc stores. Otlier movements were anxiously ex 



1812.] ADMINISTRATION. 257 

pected by the people ; but after the misfortunes at Detroit 
and Niagara, the general deemed it inexpedient to engage 
in any important enterprise. 

15. Thus ended the campaign of 1812. Although, on 
many occasions, extraordinary gallantry had been dis- 
played, yet nothing was accomplished, and the losses 
sustained were numerous and heavy. Those who approved 
of the declaration of war felt disappointed, mortified, and 
dejected. They attributed most of the misfortunes of 
the country to the conduct of the federalists, whom they 
accused of endeavoring to prevent enlistments into the 
army, and of maintaining the most pernicious doctrines in 
relation to the militia. The federalists, on the other hand, 
attributed these repeated failures to the imbecility of the 
administration, and to the unwise selection of military 
officers. They assumed a bolder tone of censure, and 
evinced a more determined spirit of opposition. 

16. But while, on land, defeat and disgrace attended 
the arms of the republic, on the ocean, where the injuries 
which led to the war had been inflicted, they gained a rich 
harvest of victory and glory. Upon the declaration of 
war, the American officers and seamen glowed with ardor 
to avenge the sufferings of their impressed fellow citizens, 
and to vindicate the honor of the republican flag. Those 
ships of war, which were ready for sea, immediately sailed 
in search of the enemy. 

17. On the 19th of August, captain Hull, who com- 
manded the Constitution of forty-four guns, descried a 
British frigate. His crew, giving three cheers, requested 
to be placed alongside of their antagonist. For three 
quarters of an hour, the latter endeavored, by skilful 
mancBUvering, to obtain the advantage of position. De- 
feated in this, she advanced towards the Constitution, 
firing broadsides at intervals. When she had approached 
within half pistol shot, a tremendous cannonade burst 
upon her from the American frigate. In thirty minutes, 
every mast and nearly every spar being shot away, she 
struck her flag. 

18. She was found to be the Guerriere of thirty-eight 
guns, commanded by captain Dacres. Of her crew, fifty 
were killed and sixty-four wounded. She had received 
so much injury, that it was thought to be impossible to get 
her into port, and she was burned. The injury sustained 
by the Constitution was slight ; of her crew, seven were 
killed and seven wounded. Although she carried a few 

X 



258 MADISON'S [1812. 

more guns than her antagonist, yet the immense disparity 
of effect clearly demonstrated the superior skill of the 
American seamen. Captain Hull, on his return to the 
United States, was welcomed with enthusiasm, by his 

fratefal and admiring- countrymen, who conferred upon 
im those honors and distinctions most dear to the patriot 
and hero. 

19. But this was the first only of a series of naval vic- 
tories. On the 18th of October, captain Jones, in the 
Wasp, of eighteen guns, captured the Frolic, of twenty- 
two, after a bloody conflict of three quarters of an hour. 
In this action, the Americans obtained a victory over a 
force decidedly superior. On their part, but eight were 
killed and wounded ; on that of the enemy, about eighty. 
On the 25th, the frigate United States, commanded by 
captain Decatur, encountered and captured the British 
frigate Macedonian. The former carried a few guns the 
most, but the disparity of loss was astonishingly great. 
On the part of the enemy, a hundred and four were killed 
and wounded; on that of the Americans, but eleven ! The 
Wasp was unfortunately captured soon after her victory, 
by a British ship of the line ; the United States brought 
her prize safely to New York. 

20. A fourth naval battle was fought, and a fourth 
victory gained, on the 29th of December. On that day, 
the Constitution, of forty-four guns, then commanded by 
captain Bainbridge, captured the British frigate Java, of 
thirty-eig^it. The combat continued more than three 
hours. The Java was reduced to a wreck ; of her crew 
one hundred and sixty-one were killed and wounded ; of 
that of the Constitution, thirty- four. 

21. These successive victories were peculiarly gratify- 
ing to the nation ; they were gained, in the midst of disas- 
ters on land, and by that class of citizens whose rights had 
been violated ; they were gained over a people claiming 
to be lords of the sea, whom long and continued success 
had rendered haughty and insolent, and who had con- 
fidently boasted that the whole American navy would soon 
be swept from the ocean. 

22. Many British merchantmen were likewise captured 
bv tjie American navy; and privateers, issuing from 
almost every port, and many of them bearing flags in- 
scribed "Free Trade and Sailors' Rights," were remark- 
ably successful. The number of prizes made during the 
first seven months of the war, exceeded five hundred. 



1813.] ADMINISTRATION. • 259 

23. In the autumn of this year, the quadrennial period 
for the election of president and vice-president again re- 
curred. The candidates for president were, the incum- 
bent, James Madison of Virginia, and De Witt Chnton of 
New York; for vice-president, Elbridge Gerry, of Massa- 
chusetts, and Jared Ingersoll, of Pennsylvania. Those 
who were opposed to the war, supported Mr. Clinton and 
Mr. Ingersoll ; and they were joined by many who believed 
that, should the former be elected president, and should 
he find it impracticable to make an honorable peace, he 
would call forth the resources, and direct the arms of the 
republic, with more decision and energy. Great exertions 
were made by the partisans of the opposing candidates, and 
the passions of the people, especially in the middle and 
northern states, were nighly excited. Of the electoral 
votes given, Mr. Madison received one hundred and twen- 
ty-eight, and Mr. Gerry one hundred and thirty-one, and 
were elected. Mr. Clinton received eighty-nine, and 
Mr. IngersoU eighty-six. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

CAMPAIGN OF 1813. 

At the commencement of the session of congress, held 
m the autumn of 1812, the president, in his message, stated 
that immediately after the declaration of war, he commu- 
nicated to the British government the terms on which its 
progress might be arrested ; that these terms were, the 
repeal of the orders in council, the discharge of American 
seamen, and the abandonment of the practice of impress- 
ment ; and that the ministry had declined to accede to 
his offers. 

2. He also stated that, at an early period of the war, he 
had received official information of the repeal of the orders 
in council ; that two propositions for an armistice had been 
made to him, both of which he had rejected, as they could 
not have been accepted without conceding to Great Britain 
the right of impressment. 

3. The rejection of these propositions was approved by 
the national representatives, who, far from abandoning the 
ground they had taken, adopted more vigorous measures 
for the prosecution of the war. The bounty and the 



260 MADISON'S [1813. 

waj^es of soldiers, were increased. The president was 
authorized to raise twenty additional regiments of infantry, 
to issue treasury notes, and to borrow money. Provision 
was also made for building four ships of the line, six 
frigates, and as many vessels of war on the great lakes as 
the public service might require. 

4. So great was the desire of the citizens of the western 
country to regain possession of the territory of Michigan, 
that, in order to effect it, general Harrison resolved to 
undertake a winter campaign. General Winchester, with 
a portion of the western army, proceeded in advance to 
Frenchtown, a village on the river Raisin, not far from 
Detroit. A British party stationed m the village was 
attacked, routed, and entirely dispersed. 

5. The Americans encamped near the field of battle, 
a part of them being protected by close garden pickets. 
Although near an enemy's post, but little precaution was 
taken to prevent a surprise. Early in the mornin^ of the 
22d of January, they were attacked by a large force ot 
British and Indians, the former commanded by colonel 
Proctor, the latter by the chiefs Roundhead and Spliilog. 
The troops in the open field were thrown into disorder. 
General Winchester and other officers made an ineflfec- 
tual attempt to rally them. They fled, but, while attempt- 
ing to escape, were mostly killed by the Indians-. The 
genera] and colonel Lewis were made prisoners. 

6. The troops behind the pickets maintained the contest 
with undaunted bravery. Atlength colonel Proctor assur- 
ed general Winchester, that if the remainder of the Amer- 
icans would immediately surrender, they should be pro- 
tected from massacre ; but otherwise he would set fire to 
the village, and would not be responsible for the conduct 
of the savages. Intimidated by this threat, general Win- 
chester sent an order to the troops to surrender, which 
they obeyed. 

7. Colonel Proctor, leaving the wounded without a 
guard, marched back immediately to Maiden. The 
Indians accompanied them a few miles, but returned early 
the next morning. Deeds of horror followed. The 
wounded officers were dragged from the houses, killed 
and scalped in the streets. The buildings were set on fire. 
Some who attempted to escape were forced back into the 
flames. Others were put to death by the tomahawk, and 
left shockingly mangled in the highway. The infamy of 
this butchery should not fall upon the perpetrators alone. It 



1813.] ADMINISTRATION. 261 

must rest equally upon those who instig-ated them to hos- 
tility, by whose side they fought, who were able, and were 
bound by a solemn engagement, to restrain them. 

8. The battle and massacre at Frenchtown clothed 
Kentucky and Ohio in mourning. Other volunteers, 
indignant at the treachery and cruelty of their foes, has- 
tened to the aid of Harrison. He marched to the rapids 
of Miami, where he erected a fort, which he called fort 
Meigs, in honor of the governor of Ohio. On the first of 
May, it was invested by a large number of Indians, and 
by a party of British troops from Maiden, the whole com- 
manded by colonel Proctor. 

9. Five days afterwards, general Clay, at the head of 
1200 Kentuckians, made an attempt to raise the siege. 
Dividing his force into several parties, and making an im- 
petuous onset, he drove the besiegers from their works. 
His troops, supposing the victory complete, and disregard- 
ing the orders of their commander, dispersed into the 
woods. The enemy, returning from their flight, obtained 
an easy victory. Of the Americans, two or three hundred 
escaped into the fort; about three hundred were killed or 
made prisoners ; the remainder fled to the nearest settle- 
ments. The enemy sustained considerable loss. 

10. The fort continued to be defended with bravery and 
skill. The Indians, unaccustomed to sieges, became 
weary and discontented. On the 8th of JVlay, notwith- 
standing the entreaties of their chief, Tecumseh, they 
deserted their allies. On the 9th, the enemy, despairing 
of success, made a precipitate retreat. General Harrison, 
leaving general Clay in command, returned to Ohio for 
reinforcements ; but in this quarter active operations were 
not resumed until a squadron had been built and prepared 
for action on lake Erie. 

11. At Sackett's Harbor, on the northern frontier, a 
body of troops had been assembled under the command of 
general Dearborn, and great exertions were made, by 
commodore Chauncey, to build and equip a squadron, on 
lake Ontario, sufficiently powerful to contend with that 
of the enemy. By the 25th of April, the naval prepara- 
tions were so far completed that the general, and 1700 
troops, were conveyed across the lake to the attack of 
York, the capital of Upper Canada. 

12. On the 27th, an advanced party, led by brigadier- 
general Pike, who was born in a camp, and bred a soldier 
from his birth, landed, although opposed, at the water's 



262 MADISON'S [1813. 

edge, by a superior force. After a short but severe con- 
flict, the enemy were driven to their fortifications. The 
rest of the troops having landed, the whole party pressed 
forward, carried the first battery by assault, and were 
moving towards the main works, when the enemy's maga- 
7.me blew up, with a tremendous explosion, hurling upon the 
advancing troops immense quantities of stone and timber. 

13. Numbers were killed, the gallant Pike received a 
mortal wound ; the troops halted for a moment, but, re- 
covering from the shock, again pressed forward and soon 
gained possession of the town. Of the British troops, one 
hundred were killed, nearly three hundred were wounded, 
and the same number made prisoners- Of the Americans, 
three hundred and twenty were killed and wounded, and 
nearly all of them by the explosion of the magazine. The 
flag which waved over the fort was carried to the dying 
Pike ; at his desire it was placed under his head, when, 
with the smile of triumph on his lips, he expired. 

14. The object of the expedition attained, the squadron 
and troops returned to Sackett's Harbor, whence, the 
wounded and prisoners being landed and other troops taken 
on board, it sailed to fort George, at the head of the lake. 
After a warm engagement, the enemy abandoned, and the 
Americans entered the fort. The fugitives retired to the 
heights, at the head of Burlington bay. On their retreat 
they were joined by a detachment from fort Erie and 
Chippeway. Two brigades, under generals Chandler and 
Winder, were despatched in pursuit On the evening of 
the 5 h of June, they encamped at Stony creek, in the 
vicinity of the enemy, who, considering their situation 
desperate, turned upon their pursuers and attacked them 
m the night. 

15. The Americans received them with coolness ; but, 
such was the darkness, that general Chandler, intending 
to place himself at the head of his artillery, threw him- 
self into the midst of a British party. A few minutes 
afierwards, the same mistake was committed by general 
Winder. Satisfied with the capture of these officers, and 
a few o'her prisoners, the enemy made a precipitate re- 
treat. The American troops returned to fort George. 
This misfortune was soon followed by another. Lieuten.. 
ant-colonel Boerstler, having been sent with 500 men, to 
disperse a body of the enemy collected at the Beaver Dams, 
was surrounded,and the whole detachment made prisoners, 

16. While the greater part of the American army was 



1813.] ADMINISTRATION. 263 

thus employed in Canada, the British made an attack upon 
the important post of Sackett's Harbor. On the 27th of 
May, their squadron appeared before the town. Alarm 
ffuns instantly assembled the citizens of the neighborhood. 
General Brown, of the New York militia, commanded in 
chief, his whole force amounting to about one thousand 
men. By his orders, a slight breastwork was hastily 
thrown up, at the only place where the enemy could land. 
Behind this, he placed the militia, the regulars under 
colonel Backus forming a second line. 

17. On the morning of the 29th, one thousand British 
troops landed from the squadron. They advanced toward 
the breastwork. The militia, seized with a sudden panic, 
tied in confusion. Colonel Mills, in a vain attempt to 
rally them, was mortally wounded. The regulars, after a 
spirited resistance, were compelled to retire toward the 
town, but in their retreat they took possession of the houses 
on the road. From these coverts they poured so destruc- 
tive a fire upon the British column, that it halted and fell 
back. General Brown, by a stratagem, converted this 
slight check into a precipitate flight. Collecting thepanic- 
Btruck militia, he directed their course along a road, which, 
while it led from the village, appeared to the British com- 
mander to lead to the place of landing. Perceiving them 
marching with great speed, he supposed that their object 
was to cut off his retreat, and re-embarked so hastily as 
to leave behind most of his wounded. General Brown, 
in recompense for his services, was appointed a brigadier 
in the regular army. 

18. Meanwhile, upon the sea coast, a distressing and 
predatory war was carried on, by large detachments from 
the powerful navy of Great Britain. One squadron, sta- 
tioned in Delaware bay, captured and burned every mer- 
chant vessel which came within its reach. The inhabitants 
of Lewiston, in the state of Delaware, having refused to 
sell provisions to the enemy, the village was bombarded, 
and several attempts were made to land, but they were 
defeated by the militia. 

19. Early in the spring, another and more powerful 
squadron arrived in Chesapeake bay. It was commanded 
by admiral Cockburn, who, departing from the usual n^pdes 
of honorable warfare,directed his efforts principally against 
unoffending citizens and peaceful villages. The farm- 
houses and gentlemen's seats near the shore were plun- 
dered, and the cattle driven away or wantonly slaughtered 



264 MADISON'S [1813. 

Frenchtown, Harvp de Grace, Fredericktown, and George- 
town were sacked and burned. Norfolk was saved from 
a similar fate, by the determined bravery of a small force 
stationed on Craney Island, in the harbor. A furious 
attack was made upon Hampton, which, notwithstanding 
the gallant resistance of its small garrison, was captured, 
and the unfortunate inhabitants suffered all which a brutal 
and unrestrained soldiery could inflict. 

20. The ocean, in the mean time, had been the theatre 
of sanguinary conflicts, in which the victors gained un- 
tarnished laurels. Captain Lawrence, in the sloop of war 
Hornet, discovering, in the neutral port of San Salvador, 
a British sloop of war of superior force, challenged her 
commander to meet him at sea. The challenge being 
declined, captain Lawrence blockaded the port until forced 
by a ship of the line to retire. 

21. Soon after, on the 2'3d of February, the Hornet met 
the British brig Peacock, of about equal force. A fierce 
combat ensued. In less than fifteen minutes, the Peaceck 
struck her colors, displaying, at the same time, a signal of 
distress. The victors hastened to the relief of the van- 
quished, and the same strength which had been exerted to 
conquer v^as now exerted to save. Their efforts were 
but partially successful. She sunk before all her crew 
could be removed, carrying down nine British searaen and 
three brave and generous Americans. In the battle, the 
loss of the Hornet was but one killed and two wounded; 
that of the Peacock was never ascertained. 

22. On his return to the United States, captain Law- 
rence was promoted to the command of the frigate Chesa- 
peake, then in the harbor of Boston. For several weeks, 
the British frigate Shannon, of equal force, but having a 
selected crew, nad been cruising before the port; and cap- 
tain Brook, her commander, had announced his wish to 
meet, in single combat, an American frigate. Inflamed 
by this challenge, captain Lawrence, although his crew 
was just enlisted, and his officers were strangers to him 
and to each other, set sail, on the first of June, in pursuit 
of the Shannon. 

23. Towards evening of the same day, they met, and 
instantly engaged, with unexampled fury. In a very few 
miniates, ana in quick succession, the sailing-master of the 
Chesapeake was killed, captain Lawrence and three lieu- 
tenants were severely wounded, her rigging was so cut 
to pieces that she fell on board the Shannon, her chest of 



1813.] ADMINISTRATION. 265 

arms blew up, captain Lawrence received a second and 
mortal wound and was carried below ; at this instant, the 

Eosition of the ships being favorable, captain Brook, at the 
ead of his marines, gallantly boarded the Chesapeake, 
when, every officer who could take command being killed 
or wounded, resistance ceased, and the American flag was 
struck by the enemy. 

24. That fortune favored the Shannon cannot be doubt- 
ed. That the event would have been the same had fortune 
favored neither, is rendered probable by the astonishing 
effect of her fire. This unexpected defeat impelled the 
Americans to seek for circumstances consoling to their 
pride, and in the journals of the day, many such were 
stated to have preceded and attended the action. But 
nothing could allay their grief at the fall of the youthful 
and intrepid Lawrence. His previous victory and mag- 
nanimous conduct had rendered him the favorite of the 
nation, and he was lamented with sorrow, deep, sincere, 
and lasting. When carried below, he was asked if the 
colors should be struck. "No," he replied, "theysball 
wave while I live." When the fate of the ship was de- 
cided, his proud spirit was broken. He became dehrous 
from excess of mental and bodily suffering. Whenever 
able to speak, he would exclaim, "Dont give up the ship !" 
an expression consecrated by his countrymen ; and he 
uttered but few other words during the four days that he 
survived his defeat. 

25. This victory was not achieved without loss. Of 
the crew of the Shannon, twenty-four were killed and 
fifty-six wounded. Of that of the Chesapeake, forty- 
eight were killed and nearly one hundred wounded. Great 
was the exultation of the enemy. Victories over the 
frigates of other nations were occurrences too common to 
excite emotion ; but the capture of an American frigate 
was considered a glorious epoch in the naval history of 
Great Britain. The honors and rewards bestowed upon 
captain Brook were such as had never before been received 
but by the conqueror of a squadron. These demonstra- 
tions of triumph were inadvertent confessions of American 
superiority; and were, to the vanquished themselves, 
sources of triumph and consolation. 

26. The next encounter at sea was between the Ameri- 
can brig Argus and the British brig Pelican. The latter 
was of superior force, and was victorious. Soon after, 
the American brig Enterprise, commanded by lieutenant 



266 MADISON'S [1813. 

Burrows, captured the British brig Boxer, commanded by 
captain Blyth. These vessels were of equal force, but 
the greater effect of the fire of the Enterprise furnished 
to the Americans another proof of the superior skill of 
their seamen. Both commanders were killed in the action, 
and were buried, each by the other's side, in Portland. 

27. The events of the war again call our attention to 
the northwestern frontier. While each nation was busily 
employed in equipping a squadron on lake Erie, general 
Clay remained inactive at fort Meigs. About the last of 
July,a large number of British and Indians appeared before 
the fort, hoping to entice the garrison to a general action 
in the field. After waiting a few days without succeeding, 
they decamped, and proceeded to fort Stephenson, on the 
river Sandusky. This fort was little more than a picket- 
ing surrounded by a ditch ; and the garrison consisted of 
but 160 men, who were commanded by major Croghan, 
a youth of twenty-one. On the first of August, it was 
invested by 500 regulars and 800 Indians. 

28. After a cannonade, which continued two days, the 
enemy, in the evening, supposing a breach had been made, 
advanced to assault the works. Anticipating this, major 
Croghan had planted a six pound'^r, the only piece of can- 
non in the fort, in a position to enfilade the ditch. It was 
loaded with grape-shot and slugs, and was discharged the 
instant the assailants arrived before it. The British com- 
mander and many of his men were killed, and many others - 
severely wounded. The remainder, in haste and disorder, 
retreated to their former position, and at dawn of day 
retired to Maiden. The youthful Croghan, for his valor 
and good conduct, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant- 
colonel. He and his brave companions received the thanks 
of congress ; and to evince their respect for his virtues, the 
ladies of Chillicothe presented to him an elegant sword. 

29. In the mean time, by the exertions of commodore 
Perry,an American squadron had been prepared for service 
on lake Erie. It consisted of nine small vessels, carry- 
ing in all fifty-four guns. A British squadron had also 
been built and equipped, under the superintendence of 
commodore Barclay. It consisted of six vessels, mounting 
sixty-three guns. 

30. Commodore Perry, immediately saihng, offered bat- 
tle to his adversary. On the tenth of September, the British 
commander, having the wind in his favcr, left the harbor 
of Maiden to accept the offer. In a few hours, the wind 



1813.] ADMINISTRATION. 267 

shifted, giving the Americans the advantage. Perry, 
forming the hne of battle, hoisted his flag, on which were 
inscribed the words of the dying Lawrence, " Don't give 
up the ship." Loud huzzas from all the vessels proclaimed 
the animation with which this motto inspired their patri- 
otic crews. 

31. About noon, the firing commenced; but, the wind 
being light, the Lawrence, the commodore's flag-ship, was 
the only American vessel that could, at first, engage in 
close action. For two hours, she contended alone with 
two vessels, each nearly her equal in force. All but seven 
of her crew were either killed or wounded, and s-he, by 
the damage she had received, was rendered wholly un- 
manageable. The wind springing up, captain Elhot was at 
length enabled to bring the Niagara into action. To this 
ship commodore Perry, sailing in an open boat through 
the midst of the fire, transferred his flag. Again the com- 
bat ra^ed with undiminished fury. In a short time, one 
of the British vessels surrendered, and soon after another ; 
and, the rest of the American squadron now joining in the 
iction, the victory was rendered decisive and complete. 
At four o'clock, the brave and fortunate commander des- 
patched to sreneral Harrison, at fort Meigs, this laconic 
epistle : "We have met the enemy, and they are ours." 

32. Great was the joy which this briihant victory oc- 
casioned throughout the union. That it was achieved 
over a superior force; that it was the first ever gained 
over a squadron; that it was entirely decisive; that it 
opened the way to the recovery of all that had been lost 
by the defeat of general Hull, — were circumstances which 
threw every other victory into the shade, and cast the 
brightest lustre upon the characters of the heroes who had 
gained it. At every place that he visited, the gallant 
Perry received the most flattering proofs of a nation's 
gratitude and love. 

33. As soon as general Harrison, who had been joined 
by governor Shelby with a large body of Kentucky militia, 
received intelligence of this victory, he hastened to the 
lake, and was conveyed by the vessels to Maiden. The 
British commander, anticipating this movement, had aban- 
doned that place, which, on the 28th of September, was 
occupied, without opposition, by the American army. 

34. The enemy, passing Detroit in their retreat, ascend- 
ed the river Thames, to the Moravian villages They 
were pursued by general Harrison, and, on the 5th of Octo- 



268 MADISON'S [1813. 

ber, brought to action. His force being greatly superior, a 
complete victory was easily and speedily gained. Six 
hundred, nearly the whole of the party, were made priso- 
ners; Tecumseh, the celebrated Inrlian chief, was killed; 
and all the posts that had been surrendered by general 
Hull were recovered from the enemy. 

35. Leaving general Cass in command at Detroit, gen- 
eral Harrison, with part of the regular force, again em- 
barked, on board the vessels, and, on the 24th, arrived at 
Buffalo, in New York, intending to join the American army 
on the Niagara frontier. But, a sufficient number of gen- 
eral officers having been assigned to that army, he re- 
ceived permission to return to his family. 

36. Previous to the events just related, general Dear- 
born, in consequence of severe indisposition, was with- 
drawn from active service, and general Wilkinson appoint- 
ed to command the army of the centre, which comprised 
about 7000 men. Having received orders, from the secre- 
tary of war, to descend the St. Lawrence and attack Mon- 
treai, he directed the scattered detachments to assemble at 
Grenadier Island, on lake Ontario. Such were the diffi- 
culties attending the concentration of the troops, and such 
perhaps the want of vigor in the commander that the 
flotilla, upon which they embarked, did not get under way 
until tlie 5th of November. 

37. Their progress was impeded by parties which the 
enemy, at every convenient position, had stationed on the 
Canada shore. To disperse these, a body of troops, un- 
der the command of general Brown, was landed, anr] di- 
rected to march in advance of the boats. At Chrystler's 
fields, on the 11th of November, a body of the enemy of 
equal force, was encountered. In the battle which ensued, 
both fought with resolute bravery, and both claimed the 
victory. The loss of the Americans was greatest, but 
they drove the enemy from their position, and enabled the 
flotilla to pass unmolested. 

38. The next day, it arrived at St. Regis. At this place, 
general Hampton, who commanded the troops at Platls- 
burg, had been ordered to meet the main army, and no 
doubt had been enterained of his disposition and ability 
to comply with the order. But here general Wilkinson, 
to his surprise and mortification, was informed that the 
contemplated junction would not take place. The project 
of attacking Montreal was abandoned, and the army un- 
der Wilkinson, marching to French Mills, there encamped 
for the winter. 



1813.] ADMINISTRATION. 209 

39. This abortive issue of the campaign occasioned 
murmurs throughout the nation. The causes which led 
to it have never been fully developed. The severest cen- 
sure fell upon general Armstrong, who was secretary of 
war, and upon general Hampton. The latter soon after 
resigned his commission in the army, and general Izard 
was selected to command the post at Plattsburg. 

40. In the progress of our narrative, some events have 
been passed over, which will now be related. In the 
early part of this year, the emperor of Russia offered his 
mediation to the two powers at war. On the part of the 
United States, the offer was promptly accepted, and Messrs. 
Adams, Gallatin, and Bayard, were appointed commis- 
sioners to negotiate, at St. Petersburg, a peace under the 
proffered mediation. 

41. On the 24th of May, congress was convened by 
proclamation of the president. Laws were enacted impos- 
ing a direct tax of three millions of dollars ; authorizing 
the collection of various internal duties; providing for a 
loan of seven and a half million of dollars ; and prohibiting 
the merchant vessels of the United States from sailing 
under British licenses. Near the close of the session, a 
committee, appointed to inquire into the subject, made a 
long report upon the spirit and manner in which the war 
hadbeen conducted by the enemy. Many proofs were pre- 
sented of shameful departures from the rules of warfare 
observed by civilized nations. 

42. In September, commodore Chauncey made two 
cruises upon lake Ontario, and repeatedly offered battle to 
the enemy's squadron, which was superior in force ; but 
eir James Yeo, the British commander, intimidated by the 
result of the battle on lake Erie, retired before him. On 
one occasion, however, in a running fight, his ships sus- 
tained considerable injury. 

43. In the same month, captain Rogers, who commanded 
the frigate President, returned from a long cruise, having- 
captured eleven merchantmen ; but he met no armed ves- 
sels, the capture of which could enhance his reputation. 
Captain Porter, in the Essex, rode triumphant in the Pa- 
cific ocean, annoying the trade of the enemy and protecting 
that of the republic. 

44. The Indians at the southern extremity of the union 
had imbibed the same hostile spirit as those at the north- 
western. They had been visited by Tecumseh, and, by 
his eloquence, nersuaJed, that the Great Spirit required 

y 



270 MADISON'S [1813. 

them to unite and attempt the extirpation of the whites, 
and had promised them victory as the reward of their ex- 
ertions. In the fall of 1812, a cruel war was carried on, 
by the Creeks and Seminoles, against the frontier inhabit- 
ants of Georgia. General Jackson, at the head of 2500 
volunteers from Tennessee, marched into the country of 
the Indians. They, overawed by his presence, desisted 
for a Time from hostility ; bat, after his return, their ani- 
mosity burst forth with increased and fatal violence. 

45. Dreading their cruelty, about three hundred men, 
women, and children sought safety in fort Mimms, in the 
Tensaw settlement. Although frequent warnings of an 
intended attack had been given them, yet at noonday, on 
the 30th of August, they were surprised by a party of six 
hundred Indians, who, with axes cut their way into the 
fort, and drove the people into the houses which it enclosed. 
To these they set fire. Many persons were burned, and 
many killed by the tomahawk. Only seventeen escaped 
to carry the horrid tidings to the neighboring stations. 

46. The whites resolved on vengeance. Again general 
Jackson, at the head of 3500 militia of Tennessee, marched 
into the southern wilderness. A detachment under genera* 
Coffee, encountering, at Tallushatchie, a body of Indians, 
a sanguinary conflict ensued. The latter fought with 
desperation, neither giving or receiving quarter, until 
nearly every warrior had perished. 

47. At Talladega, another battle was fought, in which 
three hundred Indians perished. The rest of the party, 
exceeding seven hundred, fled. General Jacksons's pro- 
visions being exhausted, he was unable to pursue them. 
While on his return to the settlements, to obtain a supply, 
his troops became refractory and even mutinous. Nearly 
all returned to their homes; but to the small number that 
remained were soon added a reinforcement of one thousand 
mounted volunteers. 

48. At the head of this force, he marched to Emuckfaw, 
within a bend of the Tallapoosa, where a body of the 
enemy were posted. To several skirmishes succeeded a 
general battle, in which the whites were victorious, but 
sustained considerable loss. For the relief of the wounded, 
Jackson returned to fort Strother, where the volunteers 
were discharged. General White from East Tennessee, 
and general Floyd from Georgia, led separate expeditions 
against the Indians, and were victorious in every combat. 



1813.] ADMINISTRATION. 271 

So enraged were the savages, that but few would accept 
of quarter or seek safety in retreat. 

49. Yet still was the spirit of the Creeks unsubdued, 
and their faith in victory unshaken. With no little sa- 
gacity and skill, they selected and fortified another position 
on the Tallapoosa, called by themselves Tohopeka, and 
by the whites, Horse-shoe Bend. Here nearly a thousand 
warriors, animated with a fierce and determined resolution, 
were collected. Three thousand men, commanded by 
general Jackson, marched to attack this post. To prevent 
escape, a detachment, under general CoflTee, encircled the 
Bend. The main body, keeping within it, advanced to the 
fortress. For a few minutes, the opposing forces were 
engaged, muzzle to muzzle, at the port-holes. Soon the 
troops, leaping over the walls, mingled with the savages. 
The combat was furious and sanguinary. The Indians, 
fleeing at length to the river, beheld the troops on the 
opposite bank. Returning, they fought with increased 
fury and desperation, and continued to resist until night. 
Six hundred warriors were killed ; four only yielded them- 
selves prisoners ; the remaining three hundred escaped. 
Of the whites, fifty-five were killed, and one hundred and 
forty-six wounded. 

50. It was expected that another stand would be made, 
by the Indians, at a place called the Hickory-ground. 
General Jackson marched thither in April. The principal 
chiefs came out to meet him, and among them was Wether- 
ford, a half blood, distinguished equally for his talents and 
cruelty. "I am in your power," said he; "do with me 
what you please. I commanded at fort Mimms. I have 
done the white people all the harm I could. I have fought 
them, and fought them bravely. There was a time when 
I had a choice ; I have none now ; even hope is ended. 
Once I could animate my warriors ; but I cannot animate 
the dead. They can no longer hear my voice ; their bones 
are at Tallushatchie,Talladega,Emuckfaw, and Tohopeka. 
While there was a chance of success, I never supplicated 
peace ; but my people are gone, and I now ask it for my 
nation and myself." Peace was concluded, and the brave 
general Jackson and his troops enjoyed an honorable but 
short repose. 



272 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 
CAMPAIGN OF 1814. 

CONCLUSION OF THE WAR. 

In the winter of 1813-14, the fifteenth congress held a 
second session. To increase the number, and to add to 
the efficiency of the army, several laws were passed, by 
one of which the enormous bounty of one hundred and 
twenty-four dollars was offered to recruits. The president 
was authorized to borrow twenty-five miUions of dollars, 
and to issue treasury notes to the amount of five millions. 

2. Before the termination of the session, a communication 
was received from the British government, declining to 
treat under the mediation of Russia, and proposing a direct 
negotiation at London or Gottenburgh. The proposition 
was accepted by the American government, who chose 
Gottenburgh as the place of meeting, for which Ghent was 
afterwards substituted ; and Henry Clay and Jonathan 
Russell were joined with the commissioners already in 
Europe. Mr. Clay, in consequence, relinquished the sta- 
tion of speaker of the house of representatives, and was 
succeeded by Langdon Cheves, of South Carolina. 

3. Early in the spring, the American army marched from 
French-Mills ; a part of the troops, under the command of 
general Wilkinson, proceeding to Plattsburgh, and the 
remainder, under general Brown, returning to Sackett's 
Harbor. Near the last of March, general Wilkinson 
penetrated into Canada, and attacked a body of the enemy, 
occupying a large stone mill, on the river La Cole. He 
was repulsed with considerable loss. This defeat de- 
tracted from his already diminished reputation. He was 
removed from command, and general Izard appointed to 
succeed him. 

4. For three months, the armies of both nations con- 
tinued inactive. Meanwhile information was received of 
the stupendous events which had recently occurred in 
Europe. The emperor of France, having been arrested 
in his victorious career, and sustained defeat after defeat, 
was compelled to abdicate his throne, and retire tothe 
island of Elba. Louis the XVHI was proclaimed king ; 
and Great Britain, at peace with all the world but the 
United States, was enabled to direct against them alone 



1814.] MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 273 

the immense force which had heen employed to crush 
her rival. She delayed not to use the advantages af- 
forded by her good fortune. From the ports of conquered 
France, ships of war and transports, bearing veteran and 
victorious troops, sailed to the American continent, some 
destined to the Niagara frontier, and some to the Atlantic 
coast. 

5. These events could not be viewed with indifference 
by the American people. Tiie friends of the administration 
anticipated a severer conflict, and prepared for greater 
gacrihces and greater sufferings. Its opposers were en- 
couraged to make more vigorous efforts to wrest the reins 
of authority from men who, they asserted, had shown 
themselves incompetent to hold them. These eflbrts, 
although condemned by a great majority of the people, di- 
minished, in no slight degree, the strength of the republic. 

6. In the beginning of July, general Brown, who had 
been assiduously employed in disciplining his troops, 
crossed the Niagara with about 3000 men, and took pos- 
session, without opposition, of fort Erie. In a strong 
position, at Chippewa, a few miles distant, was intrenched 
an equal number of British troops commanded by general 
Riall. On the 4th, general Brown approached their works. 
The next day, the two armies met in the open field. The 
conflict was obstinate and bloody. The Americans were 
victorious ; and the enemy, having sustained the loss of 
live hundred men, sought safety behind their intrenchments. 

7. This decisive victory, achieved after so many reverses, 
was hailed as an omen of future success. Soon afterwards, 
general Riall, abandoning his works, retired to the heights 
of Burlington. Here lieutenant-general Drummond, with 
a large reinforcement, joined him, and assuming the com- 
mand, led back the army towards the American camp. 
On the 25th, was fought the battle of Bridgewater, which 
be^an before sunset and continued until midnight. 

8. This battle was fought near the cataract of Niagara, 
whose roar was silenced by the thunder of cannon and the 
din of arms, but was distinctly heard during the pauses of 
the fight. At intervals the moon shone brightly, but often 
her light was obscured. Against a superior force, the 
Americans, for several hours, contended with various suc- 
cess. During the first part of the engagement, they were 
sorely annoyed, into whatever part of the field they might 
drive the enemy, or be driven by the British artillery, 
stationed on a commanding eminence. "Can you storm 



274 MADISON'S [1814. 

that battery V* said general Ripley to colonel Miller. " I'll 
try, sir," was the loconic answer. At the wgrd of com- 
mand, his men, with steady courage, ascended the hill, 
advanced to the muzzles of the cannon, killed with the 
bayonet several artillery-men, on the point of firing- their 
pieces, and drove the remainder before them. 

9. Both parties were instantly reinforced, and the enemy 
made a daring effort to regain their cannon. They were 
repulsed, but quickly repeated the attempt. Nearly all 
the opposing forces gathered around this position, and to 
possess it was the sole object of both armies. Again the 
enemy were repulsed ; but again they renewed the eftbrt. 
After a violent conflict, they were a third time driven 
from the hill. The firing then ceased ; the British troops 
were withdrawn ; and the Americans were left in quiet 
possession of the field. 

10. Generals Brown and Scott having both been severely 
wounded, the command devolved upon general Ripley. 
He remained a few hours upon the hill, collecteu the 
wounded, and then returned unmolested to the camp. 
The number of the killed and wounded proves the bravery 
of the combatants, and the severity of the conflict. On 
the American side it was 743 ; on the British, one hundred 
less ; and of the latter 117 more were missing than of the 
former, The British, therefore, besides losing their posi- 
tion, sustained the greater loss of men. 

11. General Ripley found his force so much weakened, 
that he deemed it prudent again to occupy fort Erie. On 
the 4th of August, it was invested by general Drummond 
with 5000 troops. In defending it, no less bravery and 
ekill were requisite, and no less were displayed, than in 
contending in the field. In the night, between the 14th 
and 15th, the besiegers made an assault upon the fort, 
which was repelled with conspicuous gallantry by the 
garrison, the former losing more than nine hundred men, 
the latter but eighty-four. " 

12. The siege was still continued. On the 2d of Sep- 
tember, general Brown, having recovered from his wounds, 
threw himself into the fort, and took command of the gar- 
rison. For their fate, great anxiety was felt by the nation, 
which was, however, in some degree, removed by the 
march from Plattsburgh of five thousand men to their 
rehef. On the 17th, a sortie was made by the besieged, 
general Porter of the New York militia, and general Miller 
of the regular army, commanding divisions. The bravery 



1814.J ADMINISTRATION. 275 

of the troops equalled that which they had displayed in the 
recent contests. After an hour of close fightings, they 
returned to the fort, having killed, wounded, and taken 
one thousand of the enemy. Their loss was severe, 
amounting- to more than live hundred. 

13. On the 21stof September, the forty-ninth day of the 
siege, general Drummond withdrew his forces, relieving 
the garrison from their toil, which had been incessant, and 
from their danger which had been encountered without 
fear. Seldom have troops deserved higher praise of their 
country. On the 9rh of October, general Izard arrived 
with the reinforcement from Plattsburgh, and being senior 
officer, took the command. On the 18th, he marched, 
with his whole force, in pursuit of the enemy, whom he 
found at Chippewa, strongly posted in a fortified camp. 
After making several unsuccessful attempts to entice them 
into the field, he evacuated Canada, and placed his troops 
in winter quarters at Buffalo, Blackrock, and Batavia. 

14. The march of the troops from Plattsburgh having 
left that post almost defenceless, the enemy determined to 
attack it by land, and, at the same time, to attempt the 
destruction of the American flotillia on lake Champlain. 
On the 3d of September, sir George Prevost, the governor- 
general of Canada, with an army of 14,000 men, most of 
whom had served in the wars of Europe, entered the ter- 
ritories of the United States. As soon as his object was 
ascertained, brigadier-general Macomb, the commander at 
Plattsburgh, called to his aid the militia of New York and 
Vermont, who, with alacrity and without distinction of 
party, obeyed the call. 

15. On the 6th, the enemy arrived atPlattsburgh, which 
is situated near lake Champlain, on the northerly bank of 
the small river Saranac On their approach, the American 
troops, who were posted on the oppositie bank, tore up the 
planks of the bridges, with which they formed slight 
breastworks, and prepared to dispute the passage of the 
stream. Several attempts to cross it were made by the 
enemy, but they were uniformly defeated. From this time, 
until the 11th, the British army were employed in erecting 
batteries, while the American forces were every hour aug- 
mented by the arrival of volunteers and militia. 

16. Early in the morning of that day, the British squad- 
ron, commanded by commodore Dovvnie, appeared off' the 
harbor of Plattsburg, where that of the United States, 
commanded by commodore McDonough, lay at anchor 



276 MADISON'S [1814- 

prepared for battle. The former carried ninety-five g"uns, 
and was manned with upwards of 1000 men ; the latter 
carried eighty-six g-uns, and was manned with 820 men. 

17. At nine o'clock the battle commenced. Seldom 
has the ocean vatnessed a more furious encounter than 
now took place on the bosom of this transparent and 
peaceful lake. At the same moment, the enemy onland 
began a heavy cannrnade upon the American lines, and 
attempted, at different places, to cross the Saranac. At 
a ford above the villag*^ the strife was hot and deadly. As 
often as the enemy advanced into the water, they received 
a destructive fire from the militia, and their dead bodies 
floated down the stream, literally crimsoned with blood. 

18. At half past eleven, the shout of victory, heard 
along the American lines, announced the result of the 
battle on the lake. A second British squ adron had yielded 
to tlie prowess of American seamen. The cry animated 
to braver deeds their brethren on the land. Fainter became 
the efforts of the enemy. In the afternoon, they withdrew 
to their intrenchments. In the night, they began a pre- 
cipitate retreat, and had fled eight miles before their de- 
parture was known in the American camp. 

19. Upon the lake, the American loss was 110; the 
British 194, besides prisoners. On land, the American 
loss was 119; that of the British was estimated at 2500. 
In the latter number, however, were included more than 
five hundred British soldiers, who, preferring America to 
their native country, deserted from the retreating army. 
With these splendid victories closed the campaign on the 
northern frontier. 

20. On the ocean, the republican flag maintained its 
high reputation. Victory was not always won ; but defeat 
never occurred attended with dishonor. The Essex, com- 
manded by captain Porter, after a bloody combat protracted 
longer than was necessary to vindicate his fame, struck 
to a British frigate and sloop of war, whose united force 
was much superior. The American sloop Peacock cap- 
tured the Epervier of equal force. The sloop Wasp, 
commanded by captain Blakely, captured the Reindeer, 
and afterwards, in the same cruise, sunk the Avon, each 
of superior force. She made several other prizes ; but 
never returned into port. Darkness rests upon her fate. 
She probably foundered at sea. The republic, with deep 
and sincere grief, mourned the loss of her gallant crew. 

21 The people of the middle and southern states, an- 



1814.] ADMINISTRATION. 277 

ticipatingagreataucrmentation of the enemy's force, and 
uncertain "wnere the blow would fall, made exertions to 
place every exposed position in a posture of defence. 
The citizens of New York displayed extraordinary activity 
and zeal. Philadelphia and Baltimore were supposed to 
be in less danger, but additions were made to their fortifi- 
cations. For the protection of Washington, a military 
district, embracing Maryland, Columbia, and a part of 
Virginia, was established, and the command of it given to 
general Winder, of Baltimore. One thousand regular 
troops were placed at his disposal, and he was authorized 
to call to his aid 15,000 militia. 

22. In the beginning of August, the expected reinforce- 
ments, consisting of many vessels of war, and a large 
number of troops, arrived in the Chesapeake from Europe. 
Of this force several frigates and bomb vessels were or- 
dered to ascend the Potomac ; another division, under sir 
Peter Parker, was directed to threaten Baltimore ; the 
main body ascended the Patuxent as far as Benedict, where, 
on the 19th of August, five thousand men, commanded by 
general Ross, were landed. 

23. In the mean time, general Winder had called on the 
militia to repair to his standard. They were exceedingly 
remiss in obeying the call. On the 22d, not more than 
two thousand had assembled. At the head of these, and 
of one thousand regulars, he took a position not far from 
the enemy, intending to prevent their progress into the 
country. 

24. A particular account of the subsequent events will 
not be attempted. General Ross, marching through a 
scattered population, advanced towards Washington. The 
Americans retired before him. A stand was made near 
Bladensburgh. The militia fled on the approach of danger ; 
but a body of seamen and marines, commanded by com- 
modore Barney, not only maintained their ground, but 
compelled the enemy to give way. They rallied, however, 
immediately ; outflanked the heroic band, put it to flight, 
and hastened forward. 

25. The retreating forces were ordered to assemble on 
the heights near the capitol ; and there they were joined 
by a body of Virginia militia. But general Winder, con- 
sidering his force too weak to oppose effectual resistance, 
retreated to the heights of Georgetown. Washington, thus 
left defenceless, was deserted by most of the citizens. 

26. On the 24th, at eight o'clock in the evening, the 

/a 



278 MADISON'S [1814. 

enemy entered the city, and atnine, the capitol, president's 
house, and many other buildings, were set on fire. Val- 
uable libraries, works of taste, and elegant specimens of 
tlie fine arts, were consigned to destruction. On the 
evening of the next day, the enemy left the city, and re- 
turned unmolested to Benedict ; where, on the 30 h, they 
embarked on board the tranvsports. Their loss, during the 
incursion, including deserters, and such as died from fa- 
tigue on the march, exceeded eight hundred. 

27. Tiie capture of Washington reflected disgrace upon 
those by whom it ought to have been defended. The de- 
struction of the national edifices attached a still darker 
stigma to the character of the enemy. The whole civilized 
world exclaimed against the act as a violation of the rules 
of modern warfare. The capitals of most of the European 
kingdoms had lately been in the power of an enemy ; but 
in no instance had the conqueror been guilty of simdar 
conduct. An indignant spirit pervaded the republic. The 
friends of the government were not only increased in 
number, but felt an additional motive to exert all their 
faculties to overcome the enemy of their country. 

28. The squadron which, at the same time, ascended 
the Potomac, met with even less resistance than that 
which ascended the Patuxent. As soon as it arrived at 
Alexandria, the citizens proposed a capitulation ; and the 
terms were speedily adjusted with the British commander. 
To purchase safety, they delivered up all their shipping ; 
all the merchandise in the city, and all the naval and ord- 
nance stores, public and private. With a fleet of prizes, 
loaded with a rich booty, the enemy returned immediately 
to the ocean. 

29. The success ofthe attack on Washington encouraged 
general Ross to undertake an expedition against Baltimore. 
On the 12ih of September, he landed 5000 men on North 
Point, about fourteen miles from the city, to which he 
directed his march. Preparations for defence had already 
been made. The whole of the militia had been called 
into the field ; the aged and the rich had voluntarily 
entered the ranks ; and assistance had been obtained 
from Pennsylvania and Virginia. 

30. General Smith, who commanded the American 
forces, detached general Strike , with three thousand men, 
to retard the progress of the enemy. The advanced par- 
ties met about eight miles from the city. In the skirmish 
which ensued general Ross was killed. The invaders 



1814.J ADMINISTRATION. 279 

however, under the command of colonel Brooke, continued 
to advance, and soon met and attacked the detachment 
under Striker. One of the mihtia regiments crave way. 
This communicated a panic to the others, and the general 
fell back to the heights, where, behind breastworks hastily 
erected, the main body of the Americans awaited an attack. 

31. After landing the troops at North Point, the British 
fleet had sailed up the Petapsco, tind bombarded fort 
McHenry and Fort Covington, which stand at the entrance 
into the harbor. The former was commanded by major 
Armistead, the latter by lieutenant Newcomb, of the navy. 
Boih were gallantly defended, the fleet was repulsed, and 
the commander of the troops, finding that the naval force 
could afford no further assistance, retreated, on the I4th, 
to North Point, and the next day re-embarked. Soon 
after, the fleet left Chesapeake bay, and part proceeded 
Bouihward to convey the troops to the theaire of future op- 
srat:ons and of unprecedenled slaughter. 

32. In the New England states, a majority of the people 
were, from ihe first, opposed to the war, and as it restrained 
them from their most profitable pursuits, commerce and 
the fisheries, their dissatisfaction continued to increase. 
They complained that their peculiar interests were disre- 
garded, and that the government, employing elsewhere the 
resources drawn from New England, did not afford them 
that protection to which, as a part of the nation, they were 
entitled. The most zealous therefore recommended that 
not only the mihtia but the revenue should be retained at 
home and employed for their own defence and protection. 

33. The general court of Massachusetts proposed that 
a convention of delegates, from the New England states, 
should assemble at Hartford, to devise means to obtam 
redress of their grievances. To this proposition Con- 
necticut and Rhode Island acceded. In December the 
convention met, consisting of delegates from those states 
appointed by their legislatures ; of two from New Hamp- 
shire, and one from yermont,appointed at county meetings. 
Their sittings were secret. Upon their adjournment, they 
published an address to the people, in which, in bold and 
forcible language, they enumerated the measures of the 
national government, supposed to be particularly detri- 
mental to the interests of New England, and of the com- 
mercial class of the nation, and proposed such amendments 
to the constitution as would prevent, in future, the adop- 
tion of similar measures. 



280 MADISON'S [1814 

34. In the fall, information was received that the Amer- 
ican and British commissioners had met and held confer- 
ences at Ghent. Great Britain, rendered arrogant by 
her recent triumphs in Europe, by the capture of Wash- 
ington, and by the boldness of the opposition, demanded 
terms which extinguished the hope of a speedy reconcili- 
ation. Congress shrunk not from the duty which the 
crisis imposed. Although the expenditures of the nation 
greatly exceeded the income ; although its finances were 
m disorder, and its credit was impaired, yet the national 
legislature,with undaunted firmness, entered upon the task 
of furnishing the means to prosecute the war with increased 
vigor. The taxes were augmented, and new loans were 
authorized. The duties of secretary at war, from which 
post general Armstrong was removed, were assigned to Mr. 
Monroe, the secretary of state, and Mr. Dallas of Penn- 
sylvania, was appointed secretary of the treasury. 

35. The repose of general Jackson, and of the troops 
whom he commanded, was interrupted by the arrival, at 
Pensacola, in August, of three British ships of war, bring- 
ing three hundred soldiers, and arms and ammunition to 
be distributed among the Indians of Florida. The troops 
were permitted by the Spaniards to take possession of 
the fort, and the commander issued a proclamation, indi- 
cating an intention of carrying on war against the adja- 
cent^ parts of the republic. 

36. General Jackson, with characteristic promptness, 
took instant and efficient measures for calling to nis aid 
the patriotic militia, who had before been victorious under 
his banners. And having remonstrated in vain with the 
governor of Pensacola, for affording shelter and protection 
to the enemies of the United States, he, near the end of 
October, atthe headof abody of regulars and two thousand 
mounted volunteers, marched against that place. A flag 
sent to demand redress, was fired on from the batteries. 
He immediately marched into the city, stormed the fort, 
obtained entire possession, and compelled the British to 
evacuate Florida. 

37. Returning to his head-quarters at Mobile, he there 
received intelligence that a powerful expedition was on 
the way to attack New Orleans. Without delay, he 
marched, with his troops, to that city. He found it in a 
state of confusion and alarm. The militia, composed of 
men of all nations; was imperfectly organized. Many, 
feeling no attacment to the republic, had refused to enter 



1814.J ADMINISTRATION. 281 

the ranks. No fortifications existed on the various routes 
by which the place could be approached ; and fears were 
entertained that the reinforcements of militia, which were 
expected from Kentucky and Tennessee, could not arrive 
in time to take part in the contest. 

38. Undismayed by the difficulties which surrounded 
him, generalJackson adopted the most decided and efficient 
means for the safety of this rich and important city. He 
visited in person every exposed point, and designated the 
positions to be fortified. He mingled with the citizens, 
and infused into the greater part his own spirit and energy. 
By his presence and exhortations, they were animated to 
exertions of which before they were not supposed to be 
capable. All who could wield a spade, or carry a musket, 
were put to work upon the fortifications, or trained in the 
art of defending them. 

39. The Mississippi, upon the east bank of which New 
Orleans stands, flows to the ocean in several channels. 
One, leaving the main stream above the city, runs east of 
it, and forms, in its course, lake Ponchartrain and lake 
Borgne. Early in December, the enemv entered this 
channel. Their whole force amounted to about 8000 men, 
a part of whom had just left the shores of the Chesapeake, 
and the remainder had arrived directly from England. A 
small squadron of gunboats, under heutenant Jones, was 
despatched to oppose their passage into the lake. These 
were met by a superior force, and, after a spirited conflict, 
in which the killed and wounded of the enemy exceeded 
the whole number of the Americans, they were compelled 
to surrender. 

40. This disaster required the adoption, in the city, of 
more vigorous measures. Disaffection growing bolder, 
martial law was proclaimed ; the authority of the civil 
magistrate was suspended ; and arbitrary power was as- 
sumed and exercised by the commander-in-chief. May 
no emergency hereafter occur, in which a military officer 
shall consider himself authorized to cite, as a precedent, 
this violation of the constitution. 

41. On the 21st of December, four thousand militia 
arrived from Tennessee. On the 22d, the enemy, having 
previously landed, took a position near the main channel 
of the river, about eight miles below the city. In the 
evening of the 23d, general Jackson made a sudden and 
furious attack upoti their camp. They were thrown into 
disorder ; but they soon rallied and fought with bravery 



^ 



282 MADISON'S [1815. 

equal to that of the assailants. Satisfied with the advan- 
tage first gained, he withdrew his troops, fortified a strong 
" osition four miles below New Orleans, and supported it 
y batteries erected on the west bank of the river. 

42. On the 28th of December, and first of January, 
vigorous but unsuccessful attacks were made upon these 
fortifications by the enemy. In the mean time, both 
armies had received reinforcements ; and general Packen- 
ham, the British commander, resolved to exert all his 
strength in a combined attack upon the American positions 
on both sides of the river. With almost incredible indus- 
try, he caused a canal, leading from a creek emptying into 
lake Borgne to the main channel of the Mississippi, to 
be dug, that he might remove apart of his boats and ar- 
tillery to the latter. All things being prepared, the 8th 
of January was assigned for tne assault. 

43. In the night, a regiment was trasported across the 
river, to storm the works on the western bank, and turn 
the guns on the American troops on the eastern. Early 
in the morning, the main body of the enemy, consisting of 
seven or eight thousand men, marched from their camp to 
the assault. While approaching, fearless and undaunted, 
showers of grape-shot thinned their ranks. When they 
came within musket-shot, a vivid stream of fire burst from 
the American lines. General Jackson having placed his 
troops in two ranks, those in the rear loaded for those in 
front, enabling them to fire with scarcely a moment *s 
intermission. The militia of the west, trained from 
infancy to the use of the rifle, seldom took unsteady or 
uncertain aim. The plain was soon covered with dead 
and wounded. Some British regiments faltered and fell 
back ; but others advanced ana presented new victims. 
While bravely leading to the walls the regiment which 
bore the ladders general Packenham was killed. In 
attempting to restore order and to rally the fugitives, 
general Gibbs, the second in command, was wounded 
mortally, and general Keene severely. Without officers 
to direct them, the troops first halted, then fell back, and 
soon fled in disorder to their camp. In little more than 
an hour, two thousand of the enemy were laid prostrate 
upon the field ; while of the Americans but seven were 
killed and six wounded — a disproportion of loss without 
a parallel in the annals of warfare. 

44. The events of the any, on the west side of the 
river, present a striking instance of the uncertainty of 




lcf»g;."y>L£t'oni"V^jibha:P'tarL. 12 



1815.] ADMINISTRATION. 283 

warlike operations. There the Americans were thrice the 
number of the assailants, and were protected by intrench- 
ments ; but they ingloribusly fled. They were closely 
pursued, until the British party, receiving intelligence of 
the defeat of the main army, withdrew from pursuit, and 
recrossed the river. They then returned and resumed 
possession of their intrenchments. 

45. General Lambert, upon whom the command of the 
British army had devolved, having lost all hope of success, 
prepared to return to the shipping. In his retreat he was 
not molested ; general Jackson wisely resolving to hazard 
nothing he had gained, in attempting to gain still more. 

4|t In the midst of the rejoicings for this signal victory, 
a s|^ial messenger arrived from Europe, with a treaty of 
peace, which, in December had been concluded at Ghent. 
The British government had receded from all their de- 
mands ; and as the orders in council had been repealed, 
and all motive for the impressment of seamen had ceased 
with the war in Europe, no stipulation, in relation to these 
subjects, was inserted in the treaty, which provided merely 
for the restoration of peace and the revision of boundaries. 
The treaty was immediately ratified by the president and 
senate. 

47. The war, however, did not cease on the ocean, until 
two additional victories had imparted a brighter lustre to 
the republican flag. In February,, the Constitution, then 
cruising under the commandof captain Stewart, captured 
the Cyaneand Levant, whose forces united were superior 
to hers ; and in March, the sloop Hornet captured the 
brig Penguin, stronger in guns and men than the victor. 



284 

CHAPTER XXIX 

1815. 

At the session of congress held in the winter of 1814- 
15, an act establishing a national bank was passed by 
both houses, but was rejected by the president, not be- 
cause he considered it unconstitutional, but for other rea- 
sons. Various internal duties and a direct tax of six mil- 
lions of dollars were imposed. 

2. After the ratification of the treaty of peace, the army, 
which consisted of about 32,000 men, was reduced to 
10,000; some of the least useful vessels of war were sold, 
but a lar^e appropriation was made to preserve the navy 
in full force ; and just before the close of the session, in 
March, war was declared against Algiers for depreda- 
tions committed on our commerce in 1812. 

3. In the summer, a squadron under commodore De- 
catur was despatched to the Mediterranean. Soon after 
entering that sea, it captured an Algerine frigate and 
brig, and then sailed into the port of Algiers. The intim- 
idated Dey sued for peace ; and a treaty was concluded, 
the terms of which were dictated by the commodore. It 
stipulated that no tribute should in future be demanded 
of the United States ; that prisoners of war should not be 
treated as slaves ; and that compensation should be made 
for all injuries done to citizens of the United States. Tu- 
nis and Tripoli were also visited and compelled to pay 
large sums of money for wrongs done to our citizens. 

4. By the report of the Secretary of the Treasury, 
made to congress, at the session begun in December, an 
estimate may be made of the expenses of the war, which 
lasted two years and a half. The public funded debt was 
increased about ^84,000,000. The additional taxes im- 
posed, and an uncertain amount of unfunded debt incur- 
red, during the war, amounted to at least $16,000,000, 
thus swelling the aggregate to at least $100,000,000. 
And when to this is added the additional expenses entailed 
on the country to maintain, after the peace, the army and 
navy, and to pay pensions ; the losses sustained by the 
derangement of business ; the withdrawal from industrial 
pursuits of a large portion of the population ; the intense 
sufferings of many ; the crimes perpetrated, and the vices 
engendered — even those, or most of those, who denaanded 



1816-17.] MADISON'S ADMINISTRATION. 285 

that war should be declared, must feel poignant regret 
that it could not have been avoided, consistently with the 
honor of the nation. 

1816. 

5. During the war, many articles manufactured abroad, 
and essential to national defence and to the comfort of the 
people, could not be ofc*\ined but at high prices. This led 
to the establishment of many manufactories of such 
articles. On the return of peace, large quantities were 
poured in from abroad, prices fell, all the manufacturers 
suffered severely, and many were ruined. The expedien- 
cy of encouraging and protecting domestic, by imposing 
high duties on foreign manufactures, became a topic of 
discussion, and a considerable majority of the people ap- 
peared to be in favor of the measure. The same opinion 
prevailing in congress, a new revenue law was passed, 
by the provisions of which, high duties were laid on 
coarse cotton and woolen cloths, and some other articles, 
when imported from foreign countries. 

6. A law establishing a national bank was passed by 
congress and approved by the president. The sum of 
eight millions of dollars was appropriated to build addi- 
tional ships of war and steam vessels; and ^100,000 
were distributed among the captors of the Algerine ves- 
sels. And a law was passed changing the compensa- 
tion of members of congress from a daily allowance of 
six dollars to an annual salary of one one thousand five 
hundred dollars. 

7. Heretofore it had been the custom of all nations to 
levy higher duties on the ships and cargoes of other na- 
tions than on those of their own. This year a commercial 
convention was concluded between the United States and 
Great Britain, in which it was stipulated that such dis- 
criminating duties should no longer be exacted, in the di- 
rect trade between the two countries. 

8. In the fall of this year, James Monroe was elected 
president and Daniel D. Thompkins vice president. The 
opposing candidate for president was Rufus King, of New 
York. The state of Indiana, which lies west of Ohio, 
was admitted into the Union on the 11th of December 

1817. 

9. The new national bank commenced operations on 
the first day of January, and very soon afterwards most 



286 MONROE'S [1817, 

of the state banks that had before refused, began to pay 
specie for their bills. Several, however, south and west 
of New England, were unable to do so, and by their fail- 
ure heavy losses were sustained by the government and 
people. 

10. The law changing the compensation of members 
of congress, which had been discovered to be unpopular, 
was repealed by the same congress that passed it, at its 
last session ; but provision was made that the repeal 
should not take effect until the session had ended. 

11. The question whether the general government has 
the power to expend money in constructing roads and ca- 
nals was the subject of a long and able debate in congress. 
A bill setting apart, for that purpose, a million and a half 
of dollars, which was to be paid by the bank for its char- 
ter, and the future dividends on tne bank shares owned 
by the government, was passed in the house by a majority 
of two, and in the senate by a majority of five. It was 
rejected by the president because the constitution does 
not, in his opinion, give to congress the power to pass 
Buch a law. 

12. On the 4th of March, James Monroe and Daniel D. 
Tompkins were inaugurated as president and vice presi- 
dent. Immediately afterwards, John Quincy Adams was 
appointed secretary of state, William H. Crawford sec- 
retary of the treasury, and John C. Calhoun secretary of 
war. Benjamin W. Crowninshield was continued in of- 
fice as secretary of the navy, and Richard Rush as attor- 
ney general. 

13. In the summer, hostilities broke out between the 
inhabitants of Georgia and the Seminole and Creek In- 
dians, a part of whom resided in Georgia and a part in 
Florida. The latter complained to the governor of Geor- 
gia that their cattle had been driven away, and several of 
their people killed, by the former ; and receiving no re- 
dress they retahated. This exasperated the whites, and 
they were still more exasperated when they heard that 
one Arbuthnot, a British trader in Florida, had circulated 
a talk among the Creeks, informing them that certain 
stipulations m their favor had been made in the treaty of 
Ghent, advising them not to sell any of their lands to the 
whites, and if any encroachments were made on them to 
address their complaints to the British government. 

14. Hostilities continuing, general Gaines, in the faD, 
marched, with a body of troops, to fort Scott, near the 



1818-19.] ADMINISTRATION. 287 

Florida line. In November, an Indian town, called Fowl- 
town, was attacked and destroyed ; and soon afterwards 
an American party, being then in Florida, was attacked 
by Indians, and about forty, almost the whole party, 
were killed. 

15. In December, the state of Mississippi, which lies on 
the river of that name, and was once a part of Georgia, 
was admitted into the union. 

1818. 

16. A law was passed establishing the compensation 
of members of congress at eight dollars a day. 

After a long debate, the house of representatives re- 
solved, by a majority of fifteen, that congress has power, 
under the constitution, to appropriate money for internal 
improvements. 

Pensions were granted, by a general law of congress, 
to such surviving offfcers and soldiers of the revolution- 
ary war as should, by reason of their reduced circum- 
stances, be in need of assistance from their country for 
support. 

17. Early in this year, general Jackson, at the head of 
about 1,200 volunteers, marched from Tennesee against 
the Seminole Indians. Being informed that they had 
been supplied with munitions of war from the Spanish 
fort at St Marks, in Florida, he took possession of it, and 
found in it Mr. Arbuthnnt, the British trader ; and soon 
after, atSuwanee, he captured Mr. Ambrister, a young 
Englishman. These two men, being accused of instiga- 
ting the Indians to war, and a-iding and abetting them, 
were tried by a court martial and hung. The general, 
after subjugating the Indians, took possession oi Pensa- 
cola» left in it a garrison, and returned home. The presi- 
dent immediately restored St. Marks and Pensacola to 
Spain. 

18. In November, at the commencement of a new ses- 
sion of congress, the state of Illinois, which lies between 
the state of Indiana and the river Mississippi, was ad- 
mitted into the Union. 

1819. 

19. By a treaty concluded this year, and afterwards 
ratified by both nations, Spain ceded East and West Flor- 
ida to the' United States, and rehnquished to them all her 
claim to the territory of Oregon. 



288 MONROE'S [1820-21. 

20. Resolutions censuring the conduct of general Jack- 
son in regard to the trial and execution of Arbuthnot and 
Ambrister, and the occupation of St. Marks and Pensa- 
cola, in Florida, were brought before the house of repre- 
sentatives ; but after an animated debate were rejected 
by a considerable majority. An eloquent speech in fa- 
vor of the resolutions was made by Mr. Clay. 

21. A bill was brought into the house of representa- 
tives authorising a part of the territory of Missouri to form 
a constitution and become a state. To this bill an amend- 
ment was proposed, providing that the further introduc- 
tion of slavery, into the new state, should be prohibited. 
In the debate on this amendment, which was character- 
ized by much asperity, the powersof congress, the moral- 
ity, benefits and evils of slavery were freely discussed. 
It was adopted by the house, but rejected by the senate, 
and the two branches failing to agree, the bill did not pass. 

22. In December, the territory of Alabama, which was 
once a part of Georgia, and is situated between that state 
and Mississippi, was admitted as a state into the Union. 

1820. 

23. A bill was again brought forward in congress to 
authorise the people of Missouri to form a state constitu- 
tion. An amendment was proposed requiring that the con- 
stitution to be formed should, in effect, prohibit the fur- 
ther introduction of slavery. A majority of the house 
voted in favor of the amendment ; a majority of the sen- 
ate against it. A compromise was at length effected be- 
tween the two parties. An act was passed which did not 
require that the constitution should contain any prohibi- 
tion of slavery ; but by one of its sections slavery was for- 
ever prohibited in all the territory once called Louisiana, 
north of 36° 30' north latitude, except in so much of it as 
should be included in the new statel 

24. At the same session, the district of Maine, which 
formerly belonged to Massachusetts, was admitted into the 
Union as a state. 

25. By the census taken this year, the number of free 
inhabitants amounted to 8,100,067; of slaves to 1,538,084 ; 
of the whole population to 9,638,131. In the last ten 
years, the increase of the whole population was 2,398,317. 

1821. 

26. The people of Missouri, having formed a cnnstitu- 



1822-23] ADMINISTRATION. 289 

tion, laid it before congress, and applied for admission 
into the Union. This constitution contained a clause 
making it the duty of the legislature to pass laws to pre- 
vent free negroes and mulattoes from coming into the state. 
As in most of the states free negroes are citizens, a res- 
olution was passed by congress declaring that Missouri 
should be admitted into the Union only on this fundamen- 
tal condition, that no law should be passed, in conformity 
to that clause, by which any citizen of another state should 
be deprived of any constitutional privilege ; requiring the 
legislature by a solemn public act, to declare the assent 
of the state to that condition ; and authorising the presi- 
dent, whenever proof of such assent should be laid before 
him, to announce the fact by proclamation ; and providing 
that thereupon Missouri should become a member of the 
Union. The legislature of Missouri assented to the con- 
dition, and the president issued his proclamation accord- 
ingly. 

27. On the 4th of March, Mr. Monroe and Mr. Tomp- 
kins were a second time inaugurated as president and vice 
president of the United States. Of the electoral votes 
for president, all but one were given for Mr. Monroe. 

28. In the summer of this year. East and West Flor- 
ida were surrendered, by the Spanish authorities, to gen- 
eral Jackson, who had been appointed, by the govern- 
ment of the United States, commissioner to receive pos- 
session. He had also been appointed governor of the 
territory, and immediately entered upon the duties of the 
office. 

182-2. 

29. Congress this year made an apportionment of rep- 
resentatives to the several states, according to the censua 
of 1820. One member was allowed for every 40,000 in- 
habitants, making the whole number two hundred and 
thirteen. 

30. Upon the recommendation of the president an ap- 
propriation was made by congress for the payment of the 
salaries of ministers to Mexico, Buenos Ayres, Columbia, 
and Chili ; the United States thus acknowledging the in- 
dependence of those South American republics. 

1823. 

31. During the last year, raan3r piratical vessels ap- 
peared in the gulf of Mexico, especially near the islands 

2a 



290 MONROE'S [1824. 

of Cuba and Portorico, committed depredations upon the 
commerce of the United States, and murdered many of 
our seafaring citizens. In a successful attempt to recap- 
ture two American vessels, lieutenant Allen of the Alliga- 
tor, and several of her crew, were killed. In this year, 
commodore Porter, with a squadron of small vessels, was 
sent to cruise against them. He succeeded in securing 
full immunity to American commerce, by driving them 
out of the gulf or into their hiding places among the 
islands, or on the coasts of the continent 

1824. 

32. In this year, still farther encouragement was granted 
to domestic manufactures, by imposing higher duties on 
articles manufactured abroad. The alterations of the 
tariff, made for that purpose since 1816, were warmly op- 
posed by the people of the northern states, and by those 
mterested in commerce ; by the former, because very few 
of them were concerned in manufactures ; by the latter, 
because high duties diminished the amount of importa- 
tions. 

33. In compliance with a special invitation from con- 
gress, general Lafayette visited the United States. He 
arrived at New York in August, and was welcomed, on 
landing, by the enthusiastic gratulations of a large con- 
course of grateful and admiring Americans. Nearly 
haif a century had elapsed since he left our shores — a pQ- 
riod crowded with stupendous events, in many of which 
he was a distinguished actor — and he now came to wit- 
ness the prosperity of a country in whose struggles for 
liberty he had participated. He remained here more than 
a year, visited every state in the Union, and received, 
wherever he went, demonstrations of affection and grati- 
tude surpassed only, in the history of the world, by those 
received by Washington from the tame people. When 
about to depart to his own country, he took leave of the 
nation, at the mansion of the president, who, in the midst 
of a large number of citizens, gave him the benedictions 
of his adopted country, and invoked upon him the bless- 
ings of Heaven. To evince their high appreciation of his 
services, and their sympathy for his sufferings in the 
cause of freedom, congress granted him two hundred 
thousand dollars and a township of land. 

34. At a convention of republican members of congress, 
William H. Crawford was nominated a candidate for the 



1825.] ADAMS'S ADMINISTRATION. 291 

office of president, and Albert Gallatin for that of vice 

{)resident. During the summer, at conventions of state 
egislatures and of the people, John Q,uincy Adams, An- 
drew Jackson, and Henry Clay, were nominated candi- 
dates for the former office, and John C. Calhoun for the 
latter. More than usual anxiety was felt and zeal dis- 
played by the friends of the persons nominated. In the 
progress of the discussions, Mr. Gallatin declined beincr a 
candidate for vice president. Of the electors chosen^ 99 
voted for general Jackson, 84 for Mr. Adams, 41 for Mr. 
Crawford, and 37 for Mr. Clay, for the office of president ; 
182 voted for Mr. Calhoun, and 78 for Nathan Sanford, 
Nathaniel Macon, and others, for the office of vice presi- 
dent. Although general Jackson received the greatest 
number of electoral votes, yet Mr. Adams, or the electors 
chosen to vote for him, received the greatest number of 
the votes of the people. Mr. Calhoun was elected vice 
president, but of president no choice was made. 

1825. 

35. According to the provisions of the constitution, the 
house of representatives, in February, proceeded, voting 
by states, to elect a president from the three candidates to 
whom the highest number of votes had been given, by the 
electors. On the first ballot, Mr. Crawford received thei 
votes of four states, general Jackson of seven, and Mr. 
Adams of thirteen ; and the latter, having a majority of 
all the states, was elected. Mr. Clay was appointed sec- 
retarv of state, Richard Rush secretary of the treasury, 
and James Barbour secretary of war. Mr. Southard was 
continued in office as secretary of the navy, and William 
Wirt as attorney general. 

36. During Mr. Monroe's administration, a controversy 
arose between the (Jnited States and Georgia, in regard 
to the Indian lands in that state, consisting of more than 
nine millions of acres, of which about five millions be- 
longed to rhe Cherokees, and about four millions to the 
Creeks. In 1802, when Georgia ceded the territory now 
consisting of the states of Alabama and Mississippi to the 
United Slates, the latter engaged to extinguish, for the 
benefit of Georgia, the title of the Indians to all the land 
owned by them in that state " as early as the same could 
be peaceably done on resonablc terms." In pursuance 
of this engagement, about fifteen millions of acres had 
been purchased, for which high prices had been paid and 



292 ADAMS'S [1825. 

promised, and attempts were repeatedly and earnestly 
made to purchase the remainder. 

37. The Creeks, however, having become partially civ- 
ilized, raising crops, owning cattle, and carrying on man- 
ufactures, refused to sell any more land, and even passed 
a law making it a capital offence for any chief to consent to 
do so. At the urgent solicitation of Georgia, commission- 
ers were once more appointed to negotiate with them, for 
the purchase of the residue. At a meeting held for the 
purpose, the tribe refused to treat ; but after the meeting 
was dissolved, and most of the chiefs had departed, a few 
who remained signed a treaty by which all the lands, be- 
longing to the tribe in Georgia, were sold and ceded to the 
UniteaStates. This treaty was concluded in February, 
and ratified by the senate on the third of March, the last 
day of the session, no objection against it being made to 
that body. 

38. The news that such a treaty had been made and 
ratified, produced great excitement among the Indians. 
Mcintosh, the leader of the chiefs who signed it, and some 
others, were soon after executed, and the treaty declared 
to be void. Yet the state of Georgia, assuming that it 
was vahd, made provision for surveying and distributing 
by lottery among her citizens the lands thus acquired. 
Apprehensive that war between Georgia and the Indians 
would be the result, president Adams despatched general 
Gaines, with a body of troops, to the country of the 
Creeks, to protect them from outrage ; and suggested to 
Mr. Troup, the governor of Georgia, the propriety 9f sus- 
pending his operations until the next meeting of congress. 

39. The Erie canal, 363 miles in length, was opened 
on the 26th of October, and the event was celebrated by 
unusual ceremonies and rejoicings. Canons being placed, 
at convenient distances along the canal and Hudson's 
river, from Buffalo to New York, a distance of five hun- 
dred and eight miles, that at Bufl^alo was discharged at 
ten o'clock, and the others progressively as the sound 
travelled from station to station, the last, at the city, be- 
ing discharged an hour and twenty minutes later. On 
the same day, a boat having on boad governor Clinton, 
and delegates from New York, and from many other cities 
and towns on the route, left Buffalo and proceeded, on 
the canal, to Albany ; and from thence, accompanied by 
a fleet of steamboats gaily decorated, to New York, where 
they arrived on the fourth of November, and were re- 



1826.] ADMINISTRATION. 293 

ceived by salutes of artillery and the acclamations of 
thousands. Being now joined by many other boats, the 
whole proceeded to Sandy Hook, and there water, brought 
from lake Erie, was poured into the ocean, and a short 
address delivered by the governor. The nautical pro- 
cession then returned, and the remainder of the day and 
the evening were spent in festivities surpassing all ever 
before witnessed in the city. 

40. The president, in his message to congress at the 
session begun in December, stated that the independent 
South American states had made provision for assem- 
bling, at Panama, a congress, at which each of them 
should be represented, to deliberate upon objects impor- 
tant to the welfare of all ; that the United States had been 
invited to be represented there by their ministers ; and 
that the invitation had been accepted. 

1826. 

41. Duringthe last summer and fall, the presidentcaused 
an investigation to be made into the circumstances attend- 
ing the conclusion of the treaty with the Creek Indians, 
in Georgia. They were ascertained to be such as to ren- 
der it, in his opinion, his duty, as an honest statesman, to 
open a negociation with those chiefs, being a large major- 
ity of the whole, who had refused to treat. After much dis- 
cussion, a new treaty was made, by which the former one 
was annulled, and nearly all the Creek lands in Georgia 
were added, for a more liberal consideration, to the Uni- 
ted States. The signing of the first treaty, and the exe- 
cution of Mcintosh, having produced an irreconcilable hos- 
tility between his followers and the remainder of the 
tribe, and the former being desirous of leaving the coun- 
try, provision was made for their removal west of the Mis- 
sissippi, at the expense of the United States. The treaty 
was ratified by the senate, by a large majority, and the 
house almost unanimously voted the appropriations ne- 
cessary to carry it into effect. Thus was preserved the 
honor of the nation, and war with the Indians, and among 
the Indians, prevented. 

42. The question, whether ministers should be sent to 
the congress of American nations at Panama, was dis- 
cussed at great length in the senate and house of repre- 
sentatives. The speakers in favor of it urged, that it was 
due to our sister republics to treat their invitation with 
respect ; that it was important to our interests that wo 



294 ADAMS'S [1826. 

should have representatives there, who could, at least, 
make us acquainted with their doings, and might, by the 
advice which our experience would enable them to give, 
have an influence upon their deliberations ; that nothinff 
done at the congress would be valid as to us until ratified 
by the president and senate ; and that it was important 
to seize this opportunity to cultivate friendship with our 
neighbors, to establish free institutions in the countries 
near us, and to provide against the interference of Euro- 
pean governmoDts in American affairs. 

43. On the other side it was urged, that this was a new 
and untried measure ; that all the questions to be dis- 
cussed and determined had not been specifically agreed 
on ; that though nothing assented to by our ministers 
would be obligatory on us until ratified, yet mischievous ' 
consequences might result from a refusal to ratify what 
had been assented to; that by taking a part in the delib- 
erations of the congress the United States would so fai* 
identify themselves with the states there represented, as 
to forfeit their character for impartiality with Euro- 
pean nations ; that the present and future condition of 
Hayti, Cuba, Portorico, inhabited principally by blacks 
might be brought forward for discussion, by which our 
ministers and tne nation would be embarassed ; that the 
proposition did not originate with us, the oldest nation, 
and the invitation was not given until the preliminaries 
had been discussed, if not settled. In the end, Richard 
C.Anderson and John Sargeant were appointed ministers 
to the congress, and the necessary appropriations made, 

44. On the 4th of July, just half a century from the de- 
claration of independence, died John Adams and Thomas 
Jefferson ; thus rendering, by their deaths, still more me- 
morable a day already made memorable by an event to 
which they, by their united efforts, more than any other 
two individuals, contributed. 

45. William Morgan, who resided at Batavia, in New 
York, having announced his intention to publish the se- 
crets of free masonry, was seized, carried off, and 
never afterwards heard of. A committee of investigation, 
appointed bv the legislature, reported that he had been 
murdered, 'fhis event produced high excitement through- 
out New York and the adjoining states, and gave rise to 
a political party, called anti-masonic. 



1828] JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION. 295 

1828. 

46. At the first session of the twentieth congress, which 
commenced in December of last year, by far the most in- 
teresting subject acted on was the revision of the tariff. 
Not only those engaged in most of the industrial pursuits 
of the country, but many distinguished statesmen, believed 
that the labour of our own people was not sufficiently 

f)rotected from the effects of competition with the cheap 
abor of Europe. In compliance with the prayer of many 
petitions, and with the opinions expressed at numerous 
conventions held for the purpose, an act was passed in- 
creasing the duties on the importation of iron, wool, hemp, 
glass, molasses, &.C., and on manufactures of wool and 
cotton. It was strenuously opposed by the representa- 
tives from the planting or slave holding states, and from 
those parts of the Union engaged in foreign commerce. 
Nearly all the representatives from Massachusetts, and 
all from the Carolinas and Georgia, voted against it. 

47. The presidential election, recurring this year, gave 
rise to much warm discussion throughout the country. 
Mr. Adams and general Jackson were the only candi- 
dates. From the commencement of the present admin- 
istration strenuous efforts had been made to make it un- 
popular. The charge, that a corrupt bargain was en- 
tered into by the friends of Mr. Adams and of Mr. Clay, 
that the former should be chosen president and the latter 
appointed secretary of state, was made, and, though de- 
nied and not proved, persisted in, and was doubtless be- 
lieved by many voters. The mission to the congress at 
Panama was condemned as injudicious, and the adminis- 
tration was charged with extravagance. Nearly all the 
friends of the three candidates opposed to Mr. Adams, at 
the last election, now voted for general Jackson, and he 
was elected. Of the electoral votes he received 178, and 
Mr. Adams 83. Mr. Calhoun was rechosen vice pres- 
ident. 



CHAPTER XXX. 

1829. 

On the fourth of March, general Jackson was inducted 
into th« office of president, and Mr. Calhoun into that of 



298 JACKSON'S [1829. 

vice president. Mr. Van Buren was appointed secretary 
of state, Samuel D. Ingham secretary of the treasury, 
John H. Eaton secretary of war, John Branch secretary 
of the navy, John M. Berrien attorney general, and Wil- 
liam T. Barry postmaster general. 

2. The commencement of this administration was dis- 
tinguished by the removal from office of a large number 
of the friends of the late president, and the appointment, 
in their stead, of men who had voted for the successful 
candidate. The number in one year was greater than 
in the preceding forty years. This course was condem- 
ned by one party as unjust to the officers removed, and 
presenting a stimulus to party spirit ; it was approved by 
the other on the ground that the change was demanded 
by the express will of the people, and that it was the right 
of the president, and required by the public interests that 
the subordinate offices should be filled by men who would 
aid his administration with cheerfulness and zeal. 

3. On the 17th of May, at Bedford, in New York, died 
John Jay, distinguished for his virtues, patriotism, talents 
and public services. He was one of the presidents of the 
old continental congress ; minister to Spain ; one of the 
negociators, at Paris, of the peace of 1783 ; secretary of 
foreign affiiirs under the confederation ; the first chief 
justice of the United States ; minister to Great Britain ; 
and governor of New York. 

4. In the message addressed by president Jackson to 
congress in Decernber, he expressed the opinion that some 
modification of the tariff" was advisable ; and after sta- 
ting that a portion of the southern Indians, having made 
some progress in civilization, had lately attempted to erect 
an independent government within the limits of Georgia 
and Alabama, he enquired whether this ought to be per- 
mitted, and suggested the propriety of setting apart an 
ample district west of the Mississippi to which they might 
be removed. Remarking that the charter of the bank of 
the United States would expire in 1836, he intimated a 
doubt whether a renewal thereof would be expedient. 

5. The Cherokees having changed their form of gov- 
ernment, assimilating it more closely to that of the states 
around them, the legislature of Georgia, apprehensive of 
the consequences, passed a law annexing the several por- 
tions of their territory in that state, to the several adjoining 
counties, extending the laws of the state over the whole, 
declaring all the laws of the Cherokees null and void, and 



1830.] ADMINISTRATION. 297 

providing that no Indian, nor the descendant of any In- 
dian should be deemed a competent witness in any cause 
to which a white man should be a party. The object of 
this law was to force the Indians to remove west of the 
Mississippi. 

6. The Cherokees, believing themselves exempted, by 
many treaties, from the jurisdiction of Georgia, immedi- 
ately addressed a forcible and eloquent memorial to con- 
gress. " When the whites," said they, " first came to the 
^lores of America, they found the red man strong ; 
though he was ignorant and savage, he received them 
kindly, and gave them dry land to rest their weary feet. 
At that time, the Indian wastne lord, and the white man. 
the suppliant But now the scene has changed. The 
northern tribes, who were once so numerous, are nearly 
extinct. Shall we, who are remnants, share the same 
fate ]" 

7. They then speak of the recent act of Georgia, and 
say they had ** appealed to our father, the president, but 
were grieved when we understood that he refused us pro- 
tection, and had decided in favor of the extension of the 
laws of the state over us." " The land on which we stand 
we have received as an inheritance from our fathers, 
who possessed it from time immemorial, as a gift from 
our common father in Heaven, In addition to that first 
cf all rights, we have the faith and pledge of the United 
States, repeated over and over again, in treaties made at 
various times. By these treaties, our rights as a sepa- 
rate people are distinctly acknowledged, and guarantees 
given that they shall be secured and protected," " To 
this land we are attached ; it is our fathers' gift ; it con- 
tains their ashes ; it is the land of our nativity ; and the 
land of our intellectual birth. We cannot consent to aban- 
don it for Another far inferior.''^ 

1830. 

8. By an act passed this year, the president was author- 
ised to exchange lands west of the Mississippi, for lands 
claimed or occupied by Indians within the limits of any 
of the states ; and to assure those, who may agree to 
exchange, that the United States would forever secure to 
them the country they shall receive. He was also author- 
ised to pay for improvements made on lands rehnquished, 
to furnish aid and assistance to all who should emigrate, 
not only for their support on their journey, but for one 

2B 



298 JACKSON'S [1831. 

year after their removal. In subsequent years, arrange- 
ments were made with most of the Indians east of the 
Mississippi to exchange their lands for oLhers beyond the 
western limits of Arkansaw. 

9. The question of the constitutional power of the gen- 
eral government to expend money for internal improve- 
ments was again discussed in congress, and several bills 
were passed appropriating money for that purpose 
From two of them the president withheld his asscn^, re- 
turning them with the objection that the objects for which 
the money was to be applied, were of a local and not of a 
national character. Two others, sent to him near the 
close of the session, he neither assented to nor returned 
with his objections. 

10. John Quincy Adams, late president of the United 
States, having consented to be a candidate, was elected a 
member of congress from Massachusetts, by an almost 
unanimous vote of the district. 

1831. 

11. In April, it was announced at Washington, that the 
heads of departments, constituting the president's cabinet, 
had resigned their offices. The letters of resignation, 
and the president's answers, were afterwards published, 
from which it appeared that Mr. Ingham, Mr. Branch and 
Mr. Berrien were requested, by the president, to resign ; 
but to all of them he declared that he was satisfied with 
their official conduct. In publications afterwards made 
by those gentlemen, they attributed the request made to 
them to their refusal to compel their families to associate 
with the wife of the secretary of war. For his new cabi- 
net, the president appointed. Edward Livingston, Louis 
M^'Lane, Lewis Cass, Levi Woodbury, and Roger B. 
Taney. 

12. In July, a treaty was concluded, at Paris, between 
France and the United States, and shortly afterwards rat- 
ified. France, on her part, agreed to pay, in full satisfac- 
tion of all claims of our merchants for property seized and 
destroyed under the decrees of Bonaparte, twenty five 
millions of francs, about ^4,650,000. This was much 
less than the amount of losses, but a settlement of the 
claim, even on these terms, was doubtless wise. The 
United States agreed to pay to France a milfion and a 
half of francs, about ^280,000, in discharge of all claims 
against them. They stipulated also that French wines 



1832.] ADMINISTRATION. 299 

should be admitted, for ten years, at a reduced duty ; and 
France relinquished certain perpetual commercial privi- 
leg-es secured to her in the ports of Louisiana, by the 
treaty ceding to us that territory. 

]832. 

13. Another act was this year passed imposing addi- 
tional duties on certain articles manufactured abroad, 
with the view of encouraging domestic manufactures. 
The people of the southern portion of the Union com- 
plained of this, as they had cf other acts passed with the 
same view, as partial and unjust, asserting that it not 
only raised the price of the articles taxed, but of similar 
articles made at home, and thus increased their burthens, 
they being consumers only, for the benefit of the manufac- 
turers at the north. 

14. In South Carolina, the people became exaspera- 
ted ; in November, a state convention was held, which 
adopted an ordinance declaring that, as congress was 
authorised to lay duties only for revenue and not for the 
benefit of any particular class, the acts passed to encour- 
age domestic manufactures were unconstitutional, and 
therefore null and void ; and that upon the employment 
of force by the people of the United States to carry the 
laws into eifect, the people of the state would hold them- 
selves absolved from all obligation to pursue their politi- 
cal connection with the people of the other states. 

15. Immediately after this determination was announ- 
ced, the president issued his proclamation dated the 10th 
of December, warning the people of South Carolina 
against all attempts to resist the laws, and declaring that 
his duty to execute them emphatically pronounced in the 
constitution, should be faithfully performed. 

16. An act was passed, by a majority of twenty two in 
the house of representatives and of eight in the senate, to 
extend the charter of the bank of the United States. It 
was returned by the president with the objections, that it 
was, in his opinion, inexpedient and unconssitutional ; and 
not two thirds of the house to which it was returned voting 
for its passage, it failed to become a law. This act of the 
president was much applauded by his friends, much cen- 
sured by his adversaries, and occasioned much angry dis- 
cussion. On the one side, a national bank was said to be 
necessary to collect, keep safely and disburse the public 
money ; on the other, the present bank was called an 



300 JACKSON'S [1833. 

aristocratic institution, was charged with corrupting offi- 
cers of the government by ioans, subsidizing the press, 
and controlhng, for the benefit of capitalists, the currency 
of the country. 

17. On the 27th of June, a disease called the cholera 
broke out in the city of New York, that being the first 
place it visited in the United States. It afterwards pre- 
vailed at various other places. In June 1831, it appeared 
at St Petersburgh, in Russia ; in October, at Sunderland, 
in England ; in February, 1832, in London ; in March, in 
Paris ; and on the 8th of June at Quebec. From all 
these places, it spread to others, and multitudes died of 
it. Its victims were principally the intemperate and fee- 
ble ; its attacks were sudden ; its progress was rapid ; 
its termination in some places mostly, in others often, 
fatal. Seldom, if ever, has such a scourge passed over 
so large a portion of the earth. 

18. In the spring of this year, the Indians on the north- 
western frontier of the United States, made attacks upon 
the settlements near to them, and massacred many of the 
inhabitants. A body of troops under the command of 

feneral Scott were sent against them. They were sub- 
ued, made a treaty of peace, and ceded a valuable tract 
of land to the United States. 

19. In the fall, general Jackson was re-elected presi- 
dent, and Martin Van Buren was elected vice president of 
the United States. The opposing candidates were Henry 
Clay and John Sargeant. General Jackson received 219 
votes, Mr. Van Buren 189, Mr. Clay and Mr. Sargeant 49 
each. 

1833. 

20. Mr. Calhoun, the leader of the late movement in 
South Carolina, having resigned the office of vice presi- 
dent, was elected a senator in congress. Mr. Clay being 
also a member of the senate, a consultation between these 
distinguished individuals resulted in the preparation by 
Mr. Clay, of a bill, called the " compromise bill," which 
provided for a gradual reduction of the obnoxious duties 
until the highest should not exceed twenty per cent. This 
bill became a law on the third of March. Afterwards, in 
the same month, the state convention of South Carolina 
assembled and repealed the ordinance adopted in the 
preceding November. 

21. By the act incorporating the bank of the United 



1834] ADMINISTRATION. 301 

States, it was provided that the money of the United States 
should be deposited therein, " unless the secretary of the 
treasury should at any time otherwise order and direct." 
In Septmber, William J. Duane being then secretary of 
the treasury, the president read to his cabinet a paper 
giving his reasons for removing the deposites from tnat 
bank and placing them in state banks. He " begs the 
cabinet to consider the measure his own, in support of 
which he should require no one of them to make a sacri- 
fice of opinion or principle. Its responsibility had been 
assumed, after the most mature deliberation and reflec- 
tion, as necessary to preserve the morals of the people, 
the freedom of the press, and the purity of the elective 
franchise." 

22. Mr. Duane, believing that he was bound by the law 
and his oath to exercise his own discretion in the matter, 
refused, for reasons given in writing, to remove the de- 
posites, and he refused also, after reflection, to resign, 
for the reason that he might then be reproached for de- 
serting his post, and willingly permitting to be done what 
he thought ought not to be done. He was immediately 
removed from office, and Mr. Taney appointed in his 
place, who ordered that the public money should in future 
be deposited in certain designated state banks. 

1834. 

23. In the session of congsess begun in December of 
last year, and continued through the winter and part of 
the summer, the removal of the deposites was the most 
interesting topic of debate. Great embarrassment in bu- 
siness, arising from scarcity of money, had followed the 
removal, and more than a hundred thousand petitioners 
prayed that congress would adopt measures of relief. 
This scarcity was occasioned by the call made by the 
bank upon its debtors for payment — by its friends declared 
to be necessary to enable it to pay the government ; by 
its enemies to be unnecessary, and made for the purpose 
of producing distress. 

24. Mr. Taney, the new secretary of the treasury, in a 
report to congress, assigned the reasons for removing the 
deposites. The senate, by a vote of 28 to 18, resolved 
that the reasons assigned were unsatisfactory and insuf- 
ficient: and by a vote of 26 to 20, "That the president, 
in the late executive proceedings in relation to the public 
revenue, had assumed upon himself authority and power 

2b 



302 JACKSON'S [1834. 

not conferred by the constitution and laws, but in deroga- 
tion of both." 

25. The house of representatives, by a vote of 119 to 
104, resolved that the public deposites ought not to be res- 
tored to the United States Bank ; and, by a vote of 114 to 
101, laid on the table the last resolution of the senate. 
The nomination of Roger B. Taney, as secretary of the 
treasurv, was rejected, in the senate, by a vote of 28 to 18. 

26. This year a war broke out with the Seminoles, a 
tribe of Indians in Florida, of whom some account has 
already been given. They had by treaty engaged to 
surrender their lands in exchange for others west of the 
Mississippi ; but a part of them declared the treaty not 
vahd, and refused to emigrate ; and as the time prescrib- 
ed approached, the number who refused increased. 

27. General Thompson was sent among them as agent 
to induce them to emigrate ; and intimations were given 
that, if they persisted in refusing, they would be compelled 
to go. In an interview with general Thompson, Osceola, 
a distinguished warrior, addressed him in language w^hich 
he considered disrespectful, and for the offence taken he 
was put into irons. In a short time, he professed regret, 
gave his assent to the treaty, and was released. But the 
msult and the wrong, rankling in his bosom, inflamed his 
hatred of the whites to the highest degree of Indian fero- 
city, andlie, in secret, resolved on vengeance. 

28. In the summer, indications of hostility were ob- 
served among the Indians, and in the fall a portion of the 
army was sent into Florida. As major Dade, with a de- 
tachment numbering 112 in all, was on his way from St 
Augustine to fort King, he was attacked, on the 28th of 
December, at ten o'clock in the forenoon, and himself, 
and all but four of his party, were killed ; and these four 
were mortally wounded. On the same day, when gene- 
ral Thompson, with others, was dining at a house very 
near and in sight of fort King, a body of Indians, stealthily 
approaching, fired through the open door, and killed gen- 
eral Thompson and four others while seated around the 
table. His body was pierced with fifteen bullets. It is 
l^nown that Osceola led the assault on the house ; it was 
said that he came to it fresh from tlie slaughter of major 
Dade, and his party. 

29. This was the commencement of the Florida war. 
It was prosecuted several years, at an immense expense, 
vyith the loss of many lives, with much distress to the liv- 



1836.] ADMINISTRATION. 303 

ing, with varied merit, but without glory, to the army. 
The Indians, excited to fury and guided by Osceola, con- 
tended with desperate pertinacity. They were seldom 
met in large parties ; not battles, but skirmishes, were 
fought, in which five, ten, or twenty, seldom more, were 
killed at a time. Dark and tangled swamps abounded, 
into which, when hard pressed, they retreated, and into 
which the whites could seldom iind entrance to reach 
their foes. 

30. In the evening of the 16th of December, a fire 
broke out in the most compact part of the city of New 
York. The weather was extremely cold, and great diffi- 
culty was experienced in working the engines. It swept 
over forty five acres, covered principally by large stores 
four and five stories high. The number of buildings con- 
sumed, according to a list made out soon after, and prob- 
ably below the truth, was five hundred and twenty nine, 
and the value of property destroyed was estimated at 
from fifteen to eighteen milhons of dollars. 

1836. 

31. Many years ago, Mr. Austin, a citizen of the United 
States, obtained, from the Spanish authorities, the grant 
of a large tract of land in Texas, a Mexican province 
bordering on Louisiana, commenced a settlement there, 
and drew to it a considerable number of emigrants from 
his own country, principally from the slave holding re- 
gion. Afterwards, Mexico declared herself independent 
of Spain, at the same time abolishing slavery within her 
territories, and adopting a form of government similar to 
our own. At this time, Texas contained but few inhabi- 
tants, and was united with the adjoining province of Coa- 
huila, both forming one state. 

32. A majority of the legislature of this state were op- 
posed to slavery. The inhabitants of Texas, becoming 
dissatisfied with the connection, adopted a state constitu- 
tion, and applied to the general congress to be allowed 
the privileges of a separate state. The mode prescribed 
by law not being observed, the application was rejected. 
In the summer of 1835, Santa Anna being then president 
of Mexico, the form of government was changed, a cen- 
tral, consolidated system, with a single legislature, being 
established. At this change, many of the inhabitants or 
Texas, especially of those who had emigrated from the 
United States, were much dissatisfied, and loudly announ- 



304 JACKSON'S ADMINISTRATION. [1836. 

ced their intention to refuse all obedience to the new gov- 
ernment, and to declare their independence. Addressing 
the citizens of the United States, they solicited th ir aid 
in the anticipated conflict ; and bands of volunteers were 
organized, in some of the southern states, to repair to 
their standard when raised. 

33. A few troops were sent into Texas, where loud com- 

flaints were made of the oppressions the people endured, 
n October, 1835, a party of Texan soldiers attacked and 
captured Goliad, a fort garrisoned by Mexican troops. In 
November, a declaration was issued, in the name of the 
people, that they had taken up arms in defence of their 
rights and liberties, and did not acknowledge the present 
authorities of the Mexican republic. And in December, 
the fortress of San Antonia was assaulted, with great 
bravery, and captured, by the Texans. 

34. Santa Anna, at the head of an army, marched im- 
mediately for Texas. On the 6th of March, he assaulted 
fort Alamo, in Bexar, captured it, after a brave resistance, 
and put the whole garrison, except seven, to the sword. 
It consisted of 187 men, among whom were David Crock- 
ett, late a member of congress from Tennessee, and sev- 
eral other citizens of the United States. On the 19th he 
met and attacked a party of 520 Texans, under colonel 
Fanning, who were compelled to surrender, and nine 
days afterwards, all but six were inhumanly massacred. 

35. Santa Anna continued his march, the Texan army 
under general Houston, late a member of congress from 
Tennessee, retreating before him. At San .Tacinto, on 
the 21st of April, a battle was fought, which resulted in 
the entire defeat of the Mexicans, of whom many were 
slain and many made prisoners. Among the latter was 
Santa Anna. While a prisoner, he signed a convention 
acknowledging the independence of Texas, which was 
afterwards disapproved by the government of Mexico. 
In November, he was set at liberty by general Houston. 

36. On the 2d of March, 1836, in the midst of these oc- 
currences, a convention of delegates, held at Washing- 
ton, the new capital of the late colony, formally declared 
Texas an independent state. The declaration was 
signed by forty nine delegates, most of whom had been 
citizens of the United States. 

37. In the autumn of this year, Martin "^'''an Buren was 
elected president of the United States. The votes given 
for president were — for Mr. Van Buren 170 ; for William 



1837.] VAN BUREN'S ADMINISTRATION. 305 

H. Harrison 73 ; for Hugh L. White 26 ; for Daniel 
Webster 14; for Wilham P. Mangum 11. The votes 
given for vice president w^ere — for Richard M. Johnson 
147 ; for Francis Granger 77 ; for John Tyler 47 ; for 
WiUiam Smith 23. No person being chosen vice presi- 
dent, Mr. Johnson was elected to that office by the senate. 

1837. 

38. At the last session of congress held under the ad- 
ministration of general Jackson, the senate adopted a reso- 
lution, by a vote of 24 to 19, to expunge from their records 
(by drawling black hues around it) the resolution passed 
in March, 1834, "That the president, in the late executive 
proceedings, in relation to the public revenue, had as- 
sumed upon himself authority and power not conferred by 
the constitution and laws, but in derogation of both." 

39. The senate also passed a resolution, "That it is 
expedient and proper that the independent political exis- 
tence of Texas be acknowledged by the government of 
the United States." And thereupon the president of 
Mexico "protested, in the most solemn manner, before all 
civihzed nations, against the acknowledgment of the pre- 
tended republic of Texas, made by the United States." 

40. Very early in the spring, unprecedented difficulties 
were experienced in the chief commercial cities, and were 
soon felt throughout the union. A great number of fail- 
ures took place. On the 10th of May, all the banks in 
New York, and on the 11th all those in Boston, stopped 
payment in specie; and the same course was soon fol- 
lowed by all the banks in the union. — One party attributed 
these distresses to the excess of speculation among men 
of business; the other to the destruction of the credit of 
the United States bank, which deprived it of the ability to 
be useful. 

41. Deputations were sent to president Van Burento 
request that he would call congress together, that it might 
adopt measures of rehef. That body met on the fourth 
of September. An act was passed authorising the issue 
often millions of dollars, in treasury notes, to be received 
in all payments to the government, which supplied, to that 
amount, a good circulating medium. The senate passed 
a bill, called the "sub-treasury bill," authorising the ap- 
pointment of several receivers-general, and providing that 
all the money of the government should be deposited with 



306 VAN BUREN'S [1838. 

them for safe keeping* and disbursement; but it was not 
passed by the house of representatives. 

42. The war still continued against the Indians in Florida. 
Their force had been constantly diminishing, but they still 
persisted in refusing to yield. In October, Osceola, and 
several principal chiefs, with about fifty warriors, came to 
the American camp, under the protection of a flag-, and 
were seized and confined by the order of general Jessup. 
Osceola died soon afterwards, leaving a name inscribed on 
the list of Indian heroes, near, but beneath, those of Philip 
and Tecumseh. 

43. The French population of Lower Canada, and a por- 
tion of that of Upper Canada, being dissatisfied with the 
manner in which the provinces were governed, demanded 
that such a change should be made as would render their 
rulers, in a greater degree, responsible to the people. A 
body of insurgents, assembled at St. Dennis, and another 
body, assembled at St. Charles, in Lower Canada, were 
attacked, in November, by British troops, about 200 killed 
and 300 wounded. In December, about 250 " patriots," 
as the^ called themselves, under McKenzie, were attacked 
near Toronto, in Upper Canada, and dispersed. 

44. The patriots havingtaken possession of Navy Island, 
in the St. Lawrence, were joined there by many citizens 
of New York. An American steam-boat, called the Caro- 
line, said to be employed by them to transport men and 
munitions of war from the United States to the island, 
was, when lying at Schlosser, attacked by a body of loy- 
alists from Canada, one man killed, the boat towed into 
the river, set on fire, and precipitated down the falls of 
Niagara. 

1838. 

r _ 45. The president issued a proclamation exhorting such 
citizens of the United States as had violated their duties, 
by associating with the patriots, to return peaceably to 
their homes, and warning them of the consequences of 
;aeglecting the duty enjoined. Soon afterwards the troops 
pn Navy Island abandoned it, and repaired to a position 
iim Bois Blane, near Detroit. In March, about 600 patri- 
t)ts, encamped in Vermont near Canada line, surrendered 
to Gen. Wool, of the American army ; and our northern 
frontiers were not afterwards disturbed. 

46. A squadron, consisting of ten vessels — sloops, brigs 
and schooners — and having on board a naturalist, con- 



1839.] ADMINISTRATION. 307 

chologist, botanist, mineralogist, philologist, and other vo- 
taries of science and art, sailed, in August, on an exploring^ 
expedition to the south seas. It was commanded by cap- 
tain Wilkes, of the American navy, who was Instructed 
to survey those seas; to note the tides, currents, shoals 
and reefs; to visit all islands in his course, ascertain their 
latitude and longitude, and describe their productions and 
inhabitants ; and generally to procure such information as 
would be of use to our people pursuing the whale iishery 
in that region, and such productions of the islands visited 
as might be valuable in commerce and useful to man. 

1839, 

47. The southeastern boundary of the United States, 
or the line between Maine and the provinces of New Bruns- 
wick and Canada, had never been definitely settled. The 
valley drained by the St. Johns, while running an easterly 
course, was claimed by both nations ; and people from 
New Brunswick often resorted there to cuttimber Three 
persons from Maine, belonging to a party sent to drive 
them away, were taken prisoners by a British force and 
carried to Fredericktown. A few diays afterwards, th*? 
British warden of the disputed territory was taken pris- 
oner and brought to Bangor. These collisions led to an 
arrangement between the- governors of Maine and New 
Brunswick, which, preserving the claims of both nations, 
restored quiet to that frontier. 

48. Most of the banks which, in May, 1837, suspended, 
in the summer of the next year resumed payments in 
specie. Those in New York were obliged to do so, by 
the expiration of the year prescribed by the legislature of 
that state; and others, anxious to fulfil their obligations, 
followed the example. But the inability of the banks, so 
great were the distresses of the people, to collect the debts 
due to them, without which they could not pay their own, 
constrained those of Philadelphia again to suspend on the 
2d of September; and soon afterwards those south and 
west of that city, were induced, by the same necessity, to 
pursue the same course. 

1840. 

49. In June, a sub-treasury bill, having passed both 
houses sf congress, became a law. It provided that four 
receivers-generals should be appointed, with whom, and 
with the officers of the mint at Philadelphia and of the 



308 TYLER'S [1841. 

branch mint at New Orleans, the money of the govern- 
ment should, when collected, be deposited, and by whom 
all disbursements should be made ; and that, in the first 
year, one fourth; in the second, one half; in the third, 
three fourths; and afterwards the whole, of the receipts 
and payments should be in specie. 

50. In the winter, general William H. Harrison was 
nominated, by the whigs, a candidate for the Office of pres- 
ident; and, in the spring, Mr. Van Buren, by the demo- 
crats. For the vice presidency, the democratic party made 
no nomination; the whigs proposed John Tyler of Vir- 
ginia. During the summer and fall, the people were in- 
tensely excited, by a warm discussion of the merits of the 
candidates, and of the measures which ought to be either 
pursued or abandoned. " Mammoth conventions," as they 
were called, imposing processions, political songs, and 
every expedient that could be devised, were resorted to, 
for the purpose of arousing the people, and inducing every 
citizen to vote. The result was the choice of 234 Harrison 
and Tyler electors, and of 60 Van Buren electors. Of the 
60 Van Buren electors 48 were chosen to vote for Richard 
M. Johnson for vice president. 

1841. 

51. On the 4th of March, general Harrison was inau- 
gurated as president, and John Tyler as vice president 
of the United States. The senate having been convened, 
Daniel Webster was appointed secretary of state, Thomas 
Ewing secretary of the treasury, John Bell secretary of 
war, George C. Badger secretary of the navy, John J. 
Crittenden attorney general, and Francis Granger post 
master general. 

52. On the 17th, president Harrison issued a procla- 
mation summoning congress to meet on the 31st of May, 
to consider "sundry weighty and important matters, chiefly 
growing out of the state of the revenue and the finances 
of the country." 

53. But shortly afterwards, rumors of the illness of the 
president spread through the land ; and these werequickly 
followed by intelligence of his death. On the 4th of April, 
ended the mortal career of the man whom his fellow citi- 
zens had just placed, by an extraordinary manifestation of 
their confidence, in the highest office in their gift, and 
frorn whose administration of their affairs most of them 
confidently anticipated prosperous and happy times. 



1842.] ADMINISTRATION. 309 

54. The vice president, John Tyler, was immediately 
informed of the death of president Harrison. In a few 
days he arrived at Washington, assumed the duties of 
chief magistrate, and requested the persons then com- 
posing the cabinet to continue in their respective offices. 

55. On the 31st of May, congress met, as required by 
the proclamation of the deceased president. The session 
was distinguished by a disagreement which arose between 
Mr. Tyler and the representatives of the party which 
elected him, in regard to the power of congress to estab- 
lish a national bank. Two bills, each creating an institu- 
tion for purposes, and with powers, similar to those of a 
bank, were passed by both houses of congress, but were 
rejected by the president; by which course, though re- 
quired, as he thought, by consistency, he lost many sup- 
porters and gained none. 

56. Among the important proceedings of the session 
were acts to authorise a loan of twelve millions of dollars ; 
to repeal the sub-treasury law ; to appropriate or distribute 
the proceeds of the sales of the public lands ; and to es- 
tablish a uniform system of bankruptcy. 

57. Near the close of the session, all the members of 
the cabinet^ except Mr. Webster, the secretary of state, 
dissatisfied with the conduct of the president in regard to 
the two bills which he had rejected, resigned their offices. 
To fill their places, the president appointed Walter For- 
ward of Pennsylvania, John C. Spencer of New York, 
Abel P. Upshur of Virginia, Charles A. WicklifFe of Ken- 
tucky, and Hugh S. Legare of South Carolina. 

1842. 

58. Hitherto Rhode Island had not adopted a constitu- 
tion, but regarded the royal charter granted in 1663 as 
remaining in force. Cinder this charter the right of voting 
was enjoyed by such persons only as had a certain amount 
of property or income, or were the eldest sons of land 
owners; and these resisted all attempts to extend to 
others the privilege they enjoyed. 

59. At length that portion of the people who were not 
allowed to vote, joined by some who were, held frequent 
meetings, at which the extension of the right of suffrage 
was fully discussed. A committee appointed at one of 
these meetings, in an address to the public, insisted that 
the people, a majority concurring, had a right, without the 
sanction of law, to adopt a new, or to alter an existing 



310 TYLER'S 1842.] 

constitution; and they afterwards recommended that 
delegrates, empowered to meet in convention and form a 
constitution, should be chosen in the several towns. Dele- 
gates were accordingly chosen, and in October, 1841, a 
constitution was formed, which was afterwards ratified at 
meetings held in the towns. The free suffrage party in- 
sisted that it was ratified by the votes of a majority of the 
adult inhabitants of the state ; but none of the proceedings 
were sanctioned by law. 

60. The convention, at a subsequent sitting, directed 
that meetings should be held for the choice of officers 
under this constitution. But at this juncture, the existing 
or charter government passed a law declaring such meet- 
ings to be illegal, and the exercise of certain powers under 
any pretended constitution to be treason against the state. 
The meetings were nevertheless held, and state officers 
chosen, Thomas W. Dorr being elected governor. 

61. The legislature then chosen met at Providence, on 
the third Tuesday of May, the prescribed oaths were 
taken, the two branches organized, and several laws 
passed. Subsequently, an attempt was made by armed 
men belonging to the suffrage party, to obtain possession 
of the state arsenal, which was unsuccessful ; and the 
insurgents were dispersed by a body of troops acting 
under the orders of Mr. King, the charter governor ot 
the state. 

62. In June, an attempt was made, by the same party, 
to establish the new government by force. With this 
view, about 700 men, with five pieces of artillery, took 
possession of a hill in Chepalchet. Gov. King proclaimed 
martial law, and ordered out .3000 militia to support the 
government. In consequence of these preparations, many 
of the insurgents abandoned the enterprise, and posses- 
sion was taken of the hill without bloodshed. 

63. Mr. Dorr left the state, returned to it after a short 
absence, was arrested, tried, convicted of treason, and 
sentenced to imprisonment for life ; but he has since been 
set at liberty. During the progress of these events, a 
constitution was formed and adopted, in the manner pre- 
scribed by law, by which almost every native American 
citizen is allowed to exercise the right of suffrage. 

64. A treaty negotiated by Daniel Webster and lord 
Ashburton was this year concluded between the United 
Stales and Great Britain. It adjusted the boundary line, 
which had been long in dispute, between Maine, New 



1843.] ADMINISTRATION. 311 

Hampshire, Vermont and New York on one side, and the 
provinces of New Brunswick and Canada on the other. 
Each nation surrendered territory to which she was en- 
titled, the United States the niost; hut she required 
Rouse's Point, a strong military post on lake Champlain, 
and the free navigfation, with certain limitations, of the 
river St. Johns to the ocean. 

1843. 

65. On the 17th of June, the anniversary of the battle 
of Bunker Hill, the completion of the monument, erected 
on the battle ground, was celebrated. A very large pro- 
cession moved from Boston to the hill, where an oration 
was delivered by Mr. Webster. TUe president of the 
United States, the heads of departments, and not far from 
50,000 people were present. The monument was begun 
in 1825, and is 220 feet high. 

66. The law establishing a uniform system of Bank- 
ruptcy, passed in 1841, was repealed. 

1844. 

67. In the beginning of April, a treaty, providing for 
the annexation of Texas to the United States, was signed 
by president Tyler, and submitted for ratification to the 
senate. In June, the senate rejected it by a vote of 35 
to 16. 

68. Candidates for the offices of president and vice 
president having been previously nominated, electors 
were chosen in the fall. The candidates of the democratic 
party were James K. Polk, and Geo. M. Dallas, and each 
received 170 electoral votes. Mr. Clay and Mr. Freling- 
huysen, the candidates of the whig party, received each 
105 votes. 

1845. 

69. In January, a treaty between the United States and 
China was ratified by the senate, by a unanimous vote. 
On the first day of March, a joint resolution passed by 
congress, declaring the terms on which Texas should, on 
her assent thereto, be admitted into the union, received the 
sanction of the president; and on the 4ih of March, Mr 
Polk and Mr. Dallas were inducted into the offices of pres- 
ident and vice president. 



APPENDIX. 



THE English colonies of North America were settled under the 
most favorable auspices. The mind of man had just burst from 
tliraldom, and begun to delight in the free and vigorous exercise of 
its powers. Religion and government had become themes of ani- 
mated discussion. The people had boldly questioned the divine 
right of their rulers to control their actions, and of their priests to 
prescribe to them articles of faith. They had assumed a higher 
rank and bolder attitude, and, conscious of their own power, had 
begun to feel less dependence upon others. 

2. From that country, where the advancement of knowledge had 
been greatest, came those who peopled this western wilderness. 
They belonged principally to a class so high as to have participated 
largely in the advantages which knowledge imparts, and yet not so 
high as to be above the power of tl>e oppressor. The persecutions 
they had endured rendered the principles of civil and religious lib 
erty more dear to their hearts, and led to inquiries and reflections, 
which fixed a conxiction of their truth more firmly in their under- 
standings. 

3. No occasion could "be more fortunate, no men could be better 
fitted, to lay the foundation of a superstnicture entirely new. Their 
knowledge enabled them to discern the good and the evil of the 
political institutions, which had existed in the world ; and their 
feelings, chastened by their sufferings, or elevated by their favor- 
able view of human nature, led them to reject those provisions, 
which sacrificed the happiness of many to the splendor of a few, 
and to adopt such only as give equal rights and privileges to all. 

4. In every nation of Europe, ecclesiastical establishments ex- 
isted, almost co-ordinate with the civil authority. The officers of 
these establishments were numerous, and their privileges extensive. 
For their support, in early times, a tenth part of the income of the 
laity was appropriated. Possessing wealth, and rank, and learn- 
ing, their influence was great, and was constantly exerted to acquire 
and preserve dominion over the minds and consciences of men. 
Their success was equal to the means whicli they employed. They 
continued to add to their wealth and power, until, corrupted by 
luxury and idleness, they forgot their duties to God and to man, 
and encumbered society with a useless and oppressive weight. 

5. No part of these establishments have been transferred to Amer- 
ica. The first settlers of most of the colonies were too proud of 
their attainmen*^ . in spiritual knowledge, to submit to dictation in 
matters of faith, and too independent in feeling to acknowledge a 
superior on earth. Here man resumed his natural and dignifled .sta- 
tion, and the ministers of the gospel, maintaining an apostolical 
simplicity of character and manners, have seldom sought to obtain, 
and possess not the means of obtaining, any greater influence thaa 
that wliich superior virtue and piety confer. 



APPENDIX. 313 

9. The doctrine of hereditaiy right prevailed also throughout 
Europe. By the fundamental regulations of nearly every kingdom, 
the monarch and nobles transmitted to their eldest sons, even though 
destitute of talents and virtue, their authority, privileges, and rank. 
The people often saw on the throne men ^^'ho were guilty of the 
most atrocious wickedness, and whose conduct involved communities 
and nations in misery; but no attempt could be made to remove or 
punish them without incurring the penalty of rebellion. They saw 
also, in other exalted stations, men equally wicked and equally 
beyond their control. 

7. The law of primogeniture existed as a part of the hereditary 
system. The eldest son inherited, not the title only, but also all the 
lands of the father. By this unjust and unnatural law, the younger 
Bons and the daughters were doomed to comparative poverty. One 
portion of the people was made rich and another poor. Few were 
placed in that happy medium between \veakh and poverty, ^^'hich 
is most favorable to virtue, to happiness, and to the improvement of 
the human faculties. 

8. The principle, that pov^'-er could be inherited, was at once re 
iected by the first emigrants to America. They had witnessed, ia 
Europe, the pernicious operation of this principle; they were con- 
vinced of its absurdity; and even had not such been the case, that 
equality of rank and condition, which existed among them, would 
have prevented any one from claiming such a privilege for his family, 
and all others from submitting to it. 

9. The law of primogeniture fell of course into disuse, or waa 
abolished. That equality of rights and of rank, which prevailed at 
first, has continued to jjrevail; and though, in some of the colonies, 
the extravagant grants of land, which were made by capricious 
governors to their favorites, introduced great inequality of fortune, 
yet the salutary operation of various laws is continually diminishing 
this inequality, dividing and distributing among many that wealth, 
which, when in the hands of a few, is less beneficial to the public, and 
productive of less individual enjoyment. 

10. The systems of government established in the colonies, were 
also departures from European precedents, and were in perfect 
harmony with their social institutions. Most of the provisions of the 
early charters were doubtless suggested by the first emigrants, and 
of course accorded with their liberal political principles. The kings, 
who granted them, conceded many privileges to encourage the 
settlement of colonies in America, entei'taining no suspicion that their 
successors would ever have occasion to regret their concessions. 
These charters made but little distinction in the rights and privileges 
of the colonists. Every man could regard those around him as his 
equals. The state of individual dependence being hardly known, 
all sense of dependence on the mother country was gradually lost; 
and the tran.sition fi-om a colonial to an independent condition was 
natural and unavoidable. 

11. In nothing is the contrast between the two systems of govern- 
ment ^eater than in the requisitions, which they make of the people, 
for their support and defence. That of Great Britain may be taken 

2c 



314 APPENDIX. 

as a favorable example of the European governments. The people 
of that kingdom pay, anuually, for the support of their sovereign and 
his relatives, nearly two and a half millions of dollars, while the 
compensation of the president of the United States is but tw^enty-five 
thousand. In the salaries of the subordinate officers of government, 
the disproportion is not so great, but is generally, nevertheless, as 
four or five to one. 

12. The niilitaiy peace establishment of Great Britain costs 
annually thirty -four millions of dollars ; that of the United States 
but little more than six millions. The naval establishment of the 
former costs about twenty-eight millions ; that of the latter about 
seven millions. British subjects pay in taxes, raised exclusively for 
national pui-poses, at the rate of fifteen dollars yearly for each indi- 
vidual ; the citizens of the United States pay, in national and state 
taxes, at the rate of but two dollars. And as the whole population 
of Great Britain and Ireland is included in the estimate, the indi- 
vidual wealth of the subjects of the united kingdom, and of the citi- 
zens of the American republic, may, on an average, be considered 
nearly equal. 

13. "With burdens thus light, not embarrassed by too much regu- 
lation, nor restricted by monopolies, but left at liberty to pursue tlieir 
ov\'n interests, as individual judgment may dictate, the citizens of 
the republic have boldy embarked in all the ordinary pursuits of 
man ; and in all have met with a degree of success, which exhibits 
a favorable ahd forcible commentary upon their free institutions, and 
proves that no other people surpass them in activity or enterprise. 

14. In the pursuits of agriculture, by far the greatest portion 
of the inhabitants are engaged ; and for that employment the country 
is most favoi'ably situated. It embraces every desirable variety of 
climate. The soil is generally good ; in many parts of the union, it 
is exceedingly fertile ; and it produces, or may be made to produce, 
almost every vegetable, which can be used as the food of man, or 
as the material of manufactures. The northern states produce Indian 
corn, rye, wheat, flax, hemp, oats, potatoes ; and their pastures feed 
and fatten large numbers of cattle and sheep. The middle aud 
western states produce tobacco, and the same articles as Uie north- 
ern, but wheat in much greater abundance. In the southern states, 
cotton is principally cultivated, but considerable quantities of Indian 
com, rice and sugar are produced. 

15. In 1820, the number of persons engaged in agriculture was 
2,070,646 ; in 1840, the number was 3,717 J56. The value of all its 
products exported, during the year ending the last day of September, 
1823, was 37,646,000 dollars; the value exported dui-ing the year 
ending on the same day in 1842, was 73,688,000 dollars. The prin- 
cipal articles exported, in the latter year, were cotton to the value 
of $47,593,000 ; flour and wheat to the value of $8,000,000 ; tobacco 
to the value of $9,540,000, and rice to the value of $1,907,000. The 
value of ]»rovisions of all kinds exported was about $16,000,000. By 
the aid of the account taken at the time an enumeration w^as made 
of the inhabitants, in 1840, the quantity of the principal crops raised 
iM 1843, has been estimated, by the superintcndant of the patent 



APPENDIX. 315 

ofBce, as follows: — of Indian com, 494 millions; of wheat, 100 
millions; of oats, 146 millions of bushels; of cotton, 7 47 millions; of 
tobacco, 185 millions ; of sugar, 126 millions ; and of rice, 90 millions 
of pounds. 

16. The agricultural class is con.spicuous for industry morality, 
and g^eiieral intellie^ence, but has less professional knowledge than 
the same class in Europe. Land having hitherto been cheap, and 
not exhausted by cultivation, agriculturalists have not been eager, 
and it has not been necessary, to make practical application of the 
discoveries of science. A change in these respects having taken 
place, especially in the Atlantic states, may now study their profess- 
ion as a science ; and, as all j)rofessions ai'e estimated according to 
the skill and intelligence required to attain eminence in them, they 
are raising their own nearer to that rank in society, to which tho 
utility and impoilance of agriculture entitle it. More taste and 
neatness are displayed, and the appearance of the country is visibly 
and rapidly improving. 

17. The COMMERCE of the United States has yielded a rich har- 
vest of wealth. Various circumstances have directed to this pursuit 
tlie attention of a large portion of the population, and have contrib- 
uted to their prosperity in it. For two thousand miles, the republic 
bounds upon the sea, and in that space has many excellent harbors. 
The finest timber for ship buildmg is abundant, and easily procured. 
Near the shores of the northern states, and on the adjacent banks of 
Newfoundland, are fishing stations, unsurpassed by any in the 
world. Fishing is consequently a lucrative employment, in pro- 
portion to the capital invested, and attracts to it a large number of 
the natives of those states. These become accustomed to a seafai-ing 
life, and soon pass into larger vessels destined for more distant and 
perilous voj-ages. 

18. The state of the world, for several years subsequent to the 
commencement of the French revolution, oflered great encourage- 
ment to the commei'cial enterprise of the country. While almost 
every other power was engaged in war, the UnitedStates were neu- 
tral ; their vessels navigated the ocean in safety, and were employ- 
ed to carry, from port to port, the commodities of the belligerent na- 
tions. In fifteen years, beginning with 1793, these favorable circum- 
stances increased the amount of American tonnage from 491,000 to 
1,242,000 tons. In 1842, the tonnage amounted to 2,092,000 tons. 

19. In 1820, the number of persons engaged in commerce was 
72,493 ; in 1840, 117,575. Ir 1823, the whole amount of exports was 
74,799,000 of dollars; in 1842, $104,691,000. In 1823, the value of 
imports was $77,579,000 ; in 1842, it was $100,162,000. As the im- 
ports, however, are always undervalued at the coustom house, the 
returns, in both years, for the values exported, were undoubtedly 
greater than those sums. 

20. In other years, the commerce of the country has flourished 
more. In 1807, the exports amounted to 108,343,000 of dollars, and 
Uie imports to 138,574,000. A portion, however, of each of these a- 
mounts consisted of foreign products. Of the decline that has taken 
place, the principal causes have been, the restoration of peace in 



316 APPENDIX. 

Europe, and the increase of the product of domestic manufactureg. 
The fonner has permitted all other nations to become our compet- 
itors; the latter has rendered it unnecessary to resort to Europe for 
most of the conveniencies and many of" the luxuries of life. The 
depression will not lona^ continue. The independence of the South 
American repubhcs has opened a wide field for the enterprise of our 
merchants, and given a brighter hue to their future prospects. 

21. The COD FISHERY on the north-eastern coast of America 
attracted, at an early period, the attention of the world. In 1583, 
sir Humphrey Gilbert found thirty-six vessels fishing in the harbor 
of St. John, in Newfoundland. They were principally from Biscay, 
in Spain, and Britany in France, and, for many years, the French 
retained almost a monopoly of this source of wealth. In 1744, they 
employed, in this fishery, 414 large ships, navigated by about 24,000 
seamen, and the quantity of fish taken amounted to 1,149,000 
quintals. 

22. The war of 1756, expelling the French from the continent, 
transferred the privileges which they had enjoyed to Great Britain. 
The English colonies, from their vicinity, participated largely in 
them. In the year 1760, six hundred and sixty vessels, navigated 
by 4,400 seamen, were fitted out from the ports of New England. 
Baring the revolutionary war, the Americans were compelled to 
relinquish this profitable pursuit ; and it required all the fii-mness 
and address of the negotiators of the peace of 1783, to secure to these 
states those advantages which nature seems to have intended for 
them, and which they had enjoyed as acomponent partof the British 
empire. They were at length, however, notwithstanding the covert 
opposition of France, conceded by the mother countiy. 

23. From that period, till 1807, the number of vessels and men 
employed in this pursuit continued to increase. An estimate has 
been made that, from 1790 to 1810, twelve hundred vessels of art 
kinds, navigated by 10,500 men and boys, were, on an average, 
yearly employed in the Bank, Bay, and Labrador fisheries ; 1,150,000 
quintals offish were caught and cured, and 37,000 barrels of oil 
were made. The annual value of the product of these fisheries could 
not have been less than three and a half millions of dollars. They 
were interrupted by the last war with Great Britain, and have not 
since regained their former activity. As nurseries of seamen, they 
are important to the nation ; and as such have received the particular 
attention and encouragement of government. A bounty, which has, 
in some years, amounted to 200,000 dollars, is paid to the owners 
and crews of the vessels employed. 

24. The WHALE fishery of the United States ought not to be 
passed over unnoticed. Its successful prosecution requires uncom- 
mon hardihood and skill. As early as 1690, the inhabitants of 
Nantucket engaged in this pursuit, and were soon after joined by 
their brethren of the town of. New Bedford. In a few years these 
monsters of the deep were driven from the American coasts ; but 
were pursued with ardor into seas the most remote. In 1715, two 
hundred and twenty-eight tons ; in 1771. twenty-seven thousand 
tons; in 1815, forty-two thousand tons of shipping were employed in 



APPENDIX. 317 

this business. The product of this fishery, exported in 1807, con* 
■isting of common and spermaceti oil and whalebone, was valued at 
606,000 dollars; in 1823, at 653,000 dollars. In 1843, the tonnage 
amounted to 67,000 tons; and the value, in their crude state, of the 
oil and whale bone brought home, to about ^7,000,000; of which 
about two millions in value were exported. 

25. An extract from the speech of Mr. Burke, delivered in the 
British parliament, in 1775, presents in eloquent language, a correct 
idea of the importance of this fishery, and of the enterprise and dex- 
terity of those engaged in it. "As to the wealth which the colonies 
have drawn from the sea by their fisheries, you had all that matter 
fully opened at your bar. You surely thought those acquisitions of 
value ; for they seemed even to excite your envy ; and yet tlie spirit 
by which that enterprising employment has been exercised, ought 
rather, hi my opinion, to have raised your esteem and admiration. 

26." And pray, sir, what in the world is equal to it? Pass by the 
other parts, and look at the manner in which the people of New 
Englandhave of late earned on tlie whale fishery. While we follow 
them among the tumbling mountains of ice, and behold them pene- 
trating into the deepest frozen recesses of Hudson's bay and Davis's 
straits ; whilst we are lookhig for them beneath the arctic circle, we 
hear that they have pierced into the opposite region of polar cold ; 
that they are at the antipodes, and engaged under the frozen serpent 
of the south. Falkland Island, which seemed too remote and ro- 
mantic an object for the grasp of national ambition, is but a stage and 
resting place in the progress of their victoi-ious industry. 

27. " Nor is the equinoctial heat more discouraging to them than 
the accumulated winter of both poles. We know that, while some 
of them draw the line and strike the harpoon on the coast of Africa, 
others ran the longitude and pursue the gigantic game along the 
coast of Brazil. No sea bat what is vexed by their fisheries. No 
climate that is not witness to their toils. Neither the perseverance 
of Holland, nor the activity of France, nor the dexterous and firm 
sagacity of English enterprise, ever carried this most perilous mode 
of hardy industry to the extent to which it has been pushed by this 
recent people ; a peojile who are still, as it were, but in the gristly 
and not yet hardened into the bone of manhood. 

28. "When I contemplate these things; when I know that the 
colonies owe little or nothing to any care of ours, and that they are 
not squeezed into this happy form by the constraint of watchfal and 
Buspicious government, but that; through a wise and salutaiy neglect, 
a generous nature has been suffered to take its own way to perfec- 
tion ; \vhen I reflect npon these eiiects, when I see how profitable 
they have been to us, I feel all the pride of power sink, and all pre- 
sumption in the wisdom of human contrivances melt and die away 
within me. My rigor relents. I pardon something to the spirit 
of hberty." 

29. Manufactures. While the United States were colonies, the 
mother country endeavored to prevent the inhabitants from manu- 
facturing any article whatever, even for their own use. The erection 
of slitting -mills was prohibited, and hatters were forbidden to take 



318 APPENDIX. 

any apprentice for less than seven years, or to employ more than 
two at a time. In adition to these and other legislative enactments, 
the wages of labor were high, and neither skill nor surplus capital 
existed in the country. But little attention was of course given to 
manufactures, and the inhabitants received their supplies from the 
artisans of England. 

30, Some attempts were however made, a few years previous to 
the commencement of the revolutionary war, to introduce manu- 
factures. Such was in part the intention of the non-importation 
agreements; and some of the colonial legislatures, to encourrge the 
production of wool, and the manufacture of cloths, exempted sheep 
from taxation. But, at no time, previous to the adoption of the con- 
stitution, did manufacturers exist in the country in sufficient number 
to be considered a class of the population. 

31, And indeed it was not until the imposition of the embargo, in 
1807, that any considerable impulse was given to this branch of 
industry. Prevented by this interruption of commerce, from ex- 
changing their products for foreign articles, the inhabitants then 
attempted to fabi-icate them for themselves. From the want of ex- 
perience and skill, many of the first attempts were unsuccessful ; but 
in a very short time these deficiencies were supplied, and at the close 
ot the war the amount of the products of manufactures was aston- 
ishingly great. Forming an estimate from the amount in 1810, 
which was near 170 millions, it could not have been less, for 1814, 
than two hundred millions of dollars. In this amount, howevei*, are 
included the products of household manufactures, and of the me- 
chanic arts, 

32, Peace, by affording to foreigners an opportunity of introducing 
the goods which had accumulated in their warehouses, checked, for 
a few yeai's, the impulse which the restrictive measures and the war 
had given. In each of the three years following 1815, the value of 
articles manufactured was probably less than in any one of the pre- 
ceding six years. From the year 1818 the amount has gradually 
increased, and in 1821 and 1822, it was probably greater than it had 
ever before been. It will hereafter continue to increase, and the 
navigation of the country will be employed, not so much in bringing 
home the manufactures of other nations, as in cariying abroad ifiose 
of the United States. In this way, domestic manufactures will repay 
to commerce the capital they have lately drawn from it. 

33, The states in which the greatest attention is devoted to this 
branch of industry, are Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts. 
New York, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. The principal 
manufactures are those of cotton and of woollen cloths, of iron, and 
of leather. In 1820, the number of inhabitants engaged in manu- 
factures was 349,506, In 1840, the number was 791.545. In 1842, 
the exports of domestic manufactures amounted to about nine mil- 
lions of dollars in value, 

34, The question, whether agriculture, commerce, or manufactures 
is most productive of national wealth, and to which the government 
ought, in preference, to extend its protection and encouragement, 
has lately been warmly discussed, by the politicians and writers on 



APPENDIX. 319 

political economy, in America, and iu Europe. Each interest has 
had its advocates. The decision of the impartial statesman v^uld 
probably be that neither should be encouraged to the neglect of the 
others ; that if either is, in any degree, to be prefeired, it is that which 
is, at the time, the most depressed ; or that which supplies most of 
the means of national defence, and most of the necessaries and con- 
veniencies of life. 

35. Debt, Revenue, and Expenditures. When, in 1790, the 

f)ublic debt was first funded, it amounted to about 75,000,000 of dol 
ars. In 1803, by the purchase of Louisiana, it was augmented to 
about 85,500,000. In the eight years which followed, a large amount 
was paid, leaving due, in 1812, but httle more than 45,000,000. To 
defray the expenses of the war, which was declared in that year, 
moi-e than 80,000,000 of new debt was contracted ; but after the 
peace the amount was rapidly diminished, and previous to" the year 
1837 nearly the whole of it was discharged. The expensive war 
against the Indians in Florida not only exhausted the treasury, but 
occasioned an increase of the debt, and on the first day of January, 
1845, it amounted to about $18,000,000. 

36. The present revenue of the republic is derived principally 
from commerce and the sale of the public lands. In 1842, the amount 
which accrued from the fonner source was $18,188,000 ; from the 
latter source $1,336,000; from other sources $120,000; the whole 
amount received being about nineteen millions and a half. In the 
same year, however, the duties on imports, which had been dimin- 
ished, were augmented, and the revenue considerably increased. 

37. The expenditures, during the same year were as follows: 
For the civil list, about $2,893,000 ; for foreign intercourse $358,000 , 
for the pay and support of the anny, $3,642,000 ; for fortifications, 
pensions, intercoui-se with the Indian tribes, &c., $5,283,000; for the 
support and increase of the navy, for navy yards, the marine corps, 
&.C.. $8,325,000; for other objects, $3,420,000; for the public debt, 
$8,478,000 ; making in the whole $32,398,906 ; and the excess of 
expenditure over income being $12,754,940. To discharge this 
amount, money was borrowed and treasury notes issued. 

38. Education. In the kingdoms of Europe large sums have 
oeen appropriated, by the government, for the purposes of educa- 
lion. Nearly all, however, has been expended in founding or . 
endowing universities. To these the sons of the noble and the rich 
could alone gain access ; and the intention and efiect of the ex- 
penditure has always been, to produce einidite scholars and able 
orators, and' to perpetuate and widen the separation between the 
higher and the lower classes of the population. 

39. The people of the United States have had a different object in 
view, and one more congenial with their political institutions. De- 
sirous that none should be ignorant, their first and principal care has 
been, to impart the advantages of instruction to the whole mass of 
the population. With this view, the legislatures of many of the states 
have ordained that schools, for the education of all the youth in 
reading, writing and arithmetic, should be kept, and supported by a 
public and general tax. 



320 APPENDIX. 

40. This system was adopted in Massachusetts as early as 1647 
A la*v was then passed, by that colony, providing that a school 
should be kept in every township having fifty house-holders, in 
which all the children, who might resoi-t to it, should be taught to 
read and write. As the number of inhabitants increased, the town- 
ships were divided into small districts, and a school supported in 
each. Thus, the means of education were provided, at the public 
expense and the opportunity of acquiring it placed within the 
power of all. 

41. Immediately after their first settlement, the same system 
■was adopted by the other colonies of New England; and it has, 
by all of them, been presei-ved and cherished to the present time. 
Connecticut, having a large tract of land in Ohio, which was sold 
for 1,200,000 dollars, appropriated the whole sum to the support of 
common or primary schools. The sum has since been aagmeuted 
to 2,051,000 dollars, and the interest is annually distributed to the 
several school districts according to the number of scholars taught 
in each. No district, however, is entitled to any aid from this fund, 
nnless it had, in the preceding year, expended, for the same purpose, 
a certain amount derived from its own resources. 

42. The effect of this system has been, to render the great body 
of the people of these states the most enlighteaed in the world. All 
can read and write, and rarely can one be found not qualified, by 
education, to transact the common concerns of life. To educate his 
children, is the first object, and the chief glory of the parent; their 
ignorance is to him and to them disgraceful. In these schools, the 
human mind receives its fii-st impulse in the career of learning; an 
impulse which carries many forward to high stations of honor and 
of usefulness. 

43. The great state of New York, distinguished for magnificent 

{)rojects of internal improvement, and for liberal patronage of 
iterature and the arts, has lately adopted a system nearly similar 
to that of Connecticut. From various sources, it has accumulated. 
a fund, the income of which is to be applied annually to the 
support of common schools. This fund, in 1820, amounted to 
1.215,000 dollars. Since that year, all the unsold and unappro- 
priated lands, which, when disposed of, will probably produce 
about one million more, have been permantly devoted to the same 
object. The annual interest of this fund is distributed, according 
to population, among the several townships, on their raising, for 
the &-ame purpose an additional sum equal to that which they 
receive from the state. In 1821, three hundred and thirty-three 
thousand childi'en were taught, in the several district schools ; a 
Humber nearly equal to that of all the children in the state between 
five and fifteen yeai-s of age. In 1823, the number taught was 
400,000, Inl843, the amount of the school fund had risen to 1,975,000, 
and the number of scholars to 657,000. 

44. Other states have large funds devoted to the support of 
common schools ; and some annually appropriate money from tlie 
treasury for the same purpose. Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia, 
New Jersey, Delaware, Tennessee, and Maryland, deserve honorable 



APPENDIX. , 321 

mention for the efforts they have made, and the money they have 
expended, to diffuse the benefits of education among the whole 
people ; and Michigan stands first among the new states for the 
wisdom and zeal which she has displayed in promoting the object 
dearest to the friends of free institutions. In 1844, the money 
distributed among the several districts of that state amounted to 
$28,000 ; and the number of scholars to 66,81 8. 

45. The national government has not been unmindful of the 
importance of universal education. Before the adoption of the 
constitution, it acquired, by the cession of the states claiming it, the 
property of nearly all the unappropriated land within the national 
boundaries. In offering this land for sale, it has reserved, in every 
township, one section, comprising 640 acres, for the use of schools. 
As the population of the new states becomes more dense, these lands 
Vi^ill constitute a valuable and productive fund, and the system of 
free schools, thus planted in tlie v/estern, will there produce the 
same benefits as in the eastern portion of the union. 

46. Schools of a higher order, to which the name of academies 
has been applied, are numerous in all the states, especially in those 
of New England. Many are incorporated, and some possess con- 
siderable funds. In these schools are taught English grammar, 
composition, history, geography, mathematics, the Latin and Greek 
languages. Many young men resort to them to acquire an education 
superior to that which can be obtained at the primary schools, and 
many to prepare themselves to enter some college or university. 
They are principally taught by those who have just received a 
degree in the arts, and who are unable, from the want of property, 
eo engage immediately in the study of the professions which they 
intend to pursue. 

47. Of colleges and universities there is also a large number in 
the United States. The oldest and first in rank is Harvard College, 
at Cambridge, Massachusetts. It was established in 1638, only 
eighteen years after the first settlement of Plymouth. It had then 
a fund of about 5,000 dollars, nearly two thii'ds of which was a 
donation from the Rev. John Harvard, of Charlestown. The first 
degrees were conferred, upon nine young gentlemen, in 1642. It 
has since received many ai^d large additions to its funds, principally 
donations from individuals ; and, from the exertions of its learned 
presidents and professors, has, with short intermissions, been con- 
stantly advancing in reputation, and increasing in usefulness. Its 
different libraries contain over 60,000 volumes. In 1844, the 
number of instructors was thirty, of students 247, and of graduates 
and others pursuing their studies in theology, law, and medicine, 
268. 

48. Yale College was founded in 1700, and incorporated in 1701. 
It was first established at Saybrook; but, in 1716, was removed to 
New Haven, in Connecticut. Elihu Yale, a merchant in London, 
having made to it a donation of more than four thousand dollars, its 
name was, in 1718, changed from the Collegiate Schools, to Yale 
College. Afterwards bishop Berkeley, the celebrated metaphysician, 
who had resided two years in America, presented to it a collection 

2D 



322 APPENDIX. 

of books, consisting of nearly one tlioTisaiid vohimes ; and a farm 
in Newport, the annual rent of which, on a long lease, is two 
hnndi'ed and forty bushels of wheat. From the state, and from 
other sources, it has received many liberal donations. Its libraries 
contain about thirty-four thousand volumes. In 1844, the number 
of instructors was thirty --five, of students 383, and of graduates and 
others pursuing their studies in theology, law, and medicine 
about 150. 

49. In addition to these, there are, in the union, about one 
bnndred colleges and universities authoinzed to confer degrees. In 
ell of these are taught the P^nglish, Latin, and Greek languages, 
rhetoric, mathematics, natural philosophy, logic, chemistry, astrono- 
my, history, and geography. In some of them are also taught the 
Hebrew, oriental, and modern European languages, anatomy, 
surgery, medicine, botany, polite literature, divinity, ethics, n"atural 
and municipal law. politics, and elocution. 

50. Literature. The remark has often been made, that the 
United States have produced no eminent scholars; and that the 
national character has not been illustrated by literary and scientific 
performances of distinguished merit. This remark is doubtless 
just. Compared with those of the old world, their writers have not 
exhibited tlie same labored polish of style, nor their men of science 
the same perseverance and extent of investigation. Theirhistorian> 
are not equal to Hume or Robertson; theii-'poets to Milton or Pope ; 
their chemists to Lavoisier or Davy ; nor their mataphysicians to 
Locke, Berkeley, or Reid. 

51. But this fact implies no deficiency of mental vigor in the 
people. The mind of the nation has received, from circumstances, 
a ditferent direction. Those who are endued with extraorduiary 
talent, whatever may have been their original propensities, have 
been called from the closet to labor in the legislative hall, or the 
cabinet ; to vindicate the cause or defend the interest of their country 
abroad ; to dispense justice from the bench, or to support and defend, 
at the bar, the claims and the rights of their fellow-citizens. 

52. To perform these duties, certainly not less honorable nor less 
difficult than any thing which the mere scholar can perform, 
a greater variety of talents, and greater intellectual labor, have been 
required in this than in any other countr3^ Here, in comparatively 
a short period, the foundations have been laid, and the superstructures 
erected, of new political institutions. Many govermnents have 
been established over communities differing from each other, and 
from those of Europe; and over these a paramount government, 
with extensive and important powers. For each of these communi- 
ties, a new system of law has been required, and each government 
has a .separate executive, legislative, and judicial departm-ent. 
The population of no country has been called upon to supply such 
a number of legislators, of judges, and of lawyers; nor, it may be 
added, of instructors of youth. And, while their number accounts 
for the comparative neglect of literature and the fine arts, the talents 
they have displayed sufficiently vindicate the republic from the re- 
proach of intellectual inferiority. 



APPENDIX. 323 

53. But not in these modes alone hare the people of these states 
proved, that in original powers of mind they may assert an equality, 
at least, with those of any other nation. None has made more im- 
portant discoveries in the useful arts. England boasts of her 
Arkwright, who invented the spinning machine ; of her Worcester, 
Newcomen, and Watt, by whose ingenuity and labors the powers 
of steam were substituted for the uncertain aid of wind and water 
in moving the machinery of manufactories. 

54. America may boast of her Godfrey, whose quadrant has been 
almost as serviceable as the compass to navigation ; of her Franklin, 
who has made our dwellings comfortable within, and protected 
them from the lightning of heaven ; of her Whitney, whose cotton 
gin has added to the annual product of that article at least one hun- 
dred millions of pounds ; of her Whittemore, the inventor of the 
wonderful machine for making cards; of her Perkins, the inventor 
of the nail machine ; and of her Fulton, who has rendered the power 
of Bteam subsei-vient to the purposes of navigation. 

55. But the United States have pi'oduced authors who would do 
honor even to any other nation. The style of Franklin is per- 
spicuous and pure ; and few men of any age or country have 
contributed more, by their writings, to enlightejQ and to benefit 
mankind. The histories of Marshall, Ramsay, Belknap, Williams, 
and the Annals of Holmes, ai-e works of sterling merit, interesting 
and instructive. Among theological writers, Edwards, Hopkins, 
Dwight, Lathrop, Buckminster and Channing, are deservedly emi- 
nent. As a novelist. Brown is distinguished, and as a philologist, 
Webster has no superior. 

56. Many of the political writers of this country have displayed 
great vigor of thought and force of expression. The pamphlets and 
state papers to which the revolutionary straggle gave existence ; 
the numbers of the Federalist; the official letters of Mr. JefFerson. 
as secretary of state, and of the American ministers at Ghent, not 
only display intellectual powers, but possess literary merit, of the 
highest order. Some of the best writers of this republic have not 
been the authors of books. 

57. To the fine arts still less attention has been paid than to 
literature ; but the neglect is to be attributed rather to the deficiency 
of patronage than to the want of capacity to excel, Beiijamin 
W'est, a native of Pennsylvania, presided for many years over the 
Hoyal Society, comprisingthe most eminent painters of Great Britain. 
In portrait-painting, Copley and Stuart have acquired a high repu- 
tation; and in historical painting, Trumbull and Alston excel. 
The United States claim only the honor of their birth ; England and 
Italy that of patronizing and instructing them. 

58. Religion. The consequences resulting from the enjoyment 
of religious liberty have been highly favorable. Free discussion 
has enhghtened the ignorant, disarmed superstition of its di-eadful 
powers, and consigned to oblivion many erroneous and fantastic 
creeds. Religious oppression and the vindictive feelings it arouses 
are hardly known. Catholics and Protestants live together in har- 
mony ; and Protestants who disagree, employ, in defending their 



324 APPENDIX. 

own doctrines, and in assailing those of tlieir antagonists, the 
weapons only of reason and eloquence. 

59. In the New England states, the Independents or Congre- 
gationalists constitute tlie most numerous denomination: in the 
middle states, the Presbyterians ; and in the southern, the Methodists, 
Baptists, Episcopalians, and Roman Catholics, are found in all 
the states; but in Maryland and Louisiana, the Catholics are more 
numerous than elsewhere. Each of these sects has one or more 
seminaries of learning, in which its peculiar doctrines are taught, 
and young men are educated for the ministry. Many other sects 
exist, but reason, less tolerant than the laws, is gradually dimin- 
ishing the number. 

60. Character and Manners. Foreigners have asserted that 
the Americans possess no national character. If at any period this 
assertion has been true, it was then no reproach. In its youth, a 
nation can have no established character. The Inhabitants of this 
republic, coming from every quarter of the world, speaking many 
different languages, dispersed over a vast extent of territory, could 
not immediately assimilate and exhibit those few prominent traits, 
which nations, as well as individuals, in their maturity, display. 

61. But the germ of a national character has always existed. It 
has grown with our growth, and is gi-adually throwing into the 
shade those unfavorable and discordant traits, which have disfigured 
and partly concealed it from view. Who, that has read the history 
of these states, has not perceived, in the inhabitants, an energy of 
purpose capable of surmounting all obstacles ; a spirit of enterprise, 
that leaves nothing useful unattempted ; a proud sense of personal 
dignity and independence ; a decided preference of utility before 
show ; and a love of knowledge that has dispelled ignorance ii-om 
the land 7 They may have been too much devoted to the pursuit 
of gain ; too much addicted to habits of intemperance ; too much 
inflated with national vanity; bigoted and superstitous ; but these 
traits are now less apparent : they are constantly melting away, and 
those more noble appearing in bolder relief. 

62. They whose wealth or talents place them in the first rank 
in society, are, in their manners, free from awkwardness, formality, 
haughtiness, and ostentation ; but they do not display the elegance 
or refinement of the same class in Europe. The mass of the people 
are serious, shrewd, inquisitive, manly, and generally respectful ; 
but they know little, and practise less, of the ceremonies of formal 
politeness. To foreigners, accustomed to the servility of the lower 
classes in Europe, they doubtless appear rough and uncourtly ; and 
many fashionable tourists may have had their feelings needlessly 
wounded, and their delicacy shocked; but when respectfully 
treated, they display native politeness and generosity of sentiment. 
Time will remove the grosser defects ; but may it never, by pol- 
ishing too deeply, impair that strength of character which is essential 
to the permanence of our republican institutions. 



APPENDIX. S25 

63. A review of "he rapid progress of the United States in pop- 
ulation, wealtli and power; a survey of their pi-escnt physical 
and moral condition ; and a comparison of them, in either respect, 
with other nations, cannot fail to give to an American citizen an 
elevated conception of his own country, and to justify the loftiest 
anticipations of the future. 

64. In a period of fifty years, ending with 1840, the popula- 
tion of the republic increased from 3,893,835, to 17,069,453 ; it con- 
sequently doubles in less than twenty -five years. In Great Britain 
the population does not double in less than eighty years ; and in 
that country the increase is nearly, if not quite, as rapid as in any 
other country in Europe. 

65. The augmentation of wealth and power cannot be so easily 
ascertained. It is the opinion of many, well qualified to judge, that 
it lias been still more rapid ; and when the increase of our exports, 
which in the same period advanced from nineteen to one hundred 
and thirty-two millions; when the growth of our cities and villaees ; 
the increase of our manufacturing establishments, of our national 
and mercantile navy, of our fortifications and other means of defeticc ; 
the extent of our internal improvements ; and, beyond all, the ex- 
tensive territories reclaimed from a state of nature and made pro- 
ductive and valuable, are adverted to, that opinion will not appear 
unfounded nor extravagant. 

66. Although now inferior to the principal nations of the old 
world, yet but a short period will elapse before the United States, 
should their progress hereafter be the same that it has been, v/ill 
overtake and pass them. Their great natural advantages will con- 
tinue to urge them forward. Extensive tracts of fertile land yet 
remain vacant of inhabitants ; tlie portions already settled are 
capable of supporting a much more numerous population ; new 
roads and new canals will give greater activity to internal commerce, 
and open new fields to the untiring industry and enterprise of man ; 
and, a small part only being required by the government, nearly 
the whole annual income will be added to the general capital, 
augmenting it in a compound ratio. 

67. That these splendid anticipations are not the suggestions 
of national vanity, the history of the past suficiently proves. — 
Yet their fulfillment depends, in a great degree, upon the future 
conduct of the people themselves ; upon their adherence to the 
principles of their fathers ; upon the preservation of free political 
institutions, of industi-ious, frugal, and moral habits ; upon sup- 
pressing the passions which lead to war, and cultivating the 
arts of peace ; and, above all, upon the universal diffusion of 
knowledge. 

68. This truth should sink deep in the hearts of the old and the 
young. The citizens of this republic should never forget the awful 
responsibilities resting upon them. They constitute the oldest 
nation on this western hemisphere, the first on the list of existing 
republics. They stand forward, the object of hatred to some, of 
admiration to many, of wonder to all ; and an impressive example 
to the people of every country-. To them is committed an ex- 

2d 



326 APPENDIX. 

periment, successful hitherto, the final result of which must have 
a powerftil influence upon tlie destiny of mankind : if favorable and 
happy, the whole civilized world will be free ; if adveree, despotism 
and darkness will again overshadow it. May they ever be sensible 
of the vast importance of their example. May they never betray 
their sacred trust. 



aUESTIONS 



TO 
HALE'S HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



Qs. Fg. 

1 7 Was the continent of America known to the ancients ? 

2 What was the object of the voyages of discovery made in the 

15th century ? 

3 Who was a distinguished navigator of that age ? 

4 Where was he born ? 

5 What incidents led him to think that he could reach the East 

Indies by sailing west. 

6 8 To whom did he apply for assistance ? 

7 Who became his friend and patron ? 

8 "When did he set sail ? From what port ? 

9 What course did he steer ? 

1 What phenomenon was first observed during his voyage ? 

11 9 How did his crews behave ? WTiat did they threaten to do ? 

12 How did he appease them ? 

13 When was land discovered ? 

14 10 WTiat other Islands did he discover and visit ? 

15 How was he received on his return ? 

16 Who first discovered the continent ? When? 

17 11 Upon what did the English found their claim to the eastern 

portion of North America ? 

18 From whom does the continent derive its name ? 

19 Who is supposed to heve entered the harbor of^New York ? 

20 What induced Coligni to attempt a settlement in America ? 

21 What was the result ? 

22 12 By whom was the second attempt made 1 When 1 Where 7 

23 Was it fortunate 1 

24 13 On what occasion was the spirit of adventure revived? 

25 Who most encouraged the scheme of colonization '^ 

26 14 What companies were formed ? 

27 What territoiys was granted to each 1 

28 What privileges were secured to tlie emigrants 1 

29 When was Ciuebec settled 1 By whom? 

CHAPTER t. 

30 15 By what company was Virginia settled? 

31 How many persons were sent over ? 

32 What distinguished man was among them? 

33 Relate the principal events of his life. 

S4 16 When did the adventurers land ? At what place ? 



2 atJESTIONS. 

Qfl. Pf . 

35 16 Who was elected president ? "Who was excluded ? 

36 What was the character of the ahoriginal inhabitants? 

37 17 What happened to captain Smith ? 

38 By whom was he preserved from death ? 

39 While absent, to what niimher had the settlers been reduced ? 

40 18 How many came with Newport? 

41 How did Smith employ himself? 
49 Was he chosen president ? 

43 19 Relate what afterwards occurred. 

44 \^^hat induced Smith to return to England ? 

45 Vv^'hat was the consequence ? 

46 20 Who were successively appointed governors? 

47 For what purpose was Pocahontas taken? 

48 What is related concerning her ? 

49 21 VvHiat was the object of Argal's expedition in 1613 ? 

50 What did lie accomplish ? 

51 W'hal in^^tructions were given by king James? 

52 When did governor Yeardly ai-rive ? 

53 What did he do which gave joy to the people ? 

54 22 In what state was the colony at this period ? 

55 23 What misfortune happened to it? 

56 How much was the number of settlers reduced ? 

57 Did the Virginians depose Harvey? 

58 What did king Charles do ? 
5D Who succeeded Harvey ? 

60 Whom did the Virginians favor, the king or parliament ? 

61 24 Wliat did the parliament do ? 

62 'V\'"hat did the Virginians do on the death of Matthews ? 

63 ^Vhy were the people dissatisfied ? 

64 Who was the leader of the insurgents ? 

65 25 Relate the incidents of the rebellion. 

66 26 What was the conduct of Berkeley towards the rebels? 

67 What was the population in 1688? 

63 How was the colony governed ? [slaves ? 

69 What course did the representatives pursue in relation to 

CHAPTER 11. 

70 26 To what company was Massachusetts granted ? 

71 27 When were the iirst men sent over left? 

72 When and why did they return to England ? 

73 By whom was the coast of Massachusetts surveyed ? • cians ? 

74 In that age what was the maxim of all ecclesiastics and politi- 

75 28 What cause induced Mr. Robinson's congregation to remove to 
75 To what company did they apply for a grant of land? [Holland? 

77 To what part were they carried ? 

78 What did they do before leaving the ship ? 

79 When did they land? 

80 ^9 How many perished during the winter? 

81 W.hat was tlie settlement called ? 

82 W.hat was the population in 1630 ? 

83 What directed tlie attention of others to New England? 

84 What association was formed in 1627 ? 

85 Of what company did tliey obtain a grant ? 



aUESTIONS. s 

Qs. Tg. 

86 29 Where did the people they sent out land ? 

87 What were the provisions of the charter they obtained T 

88 30 Wliat town was next settled? 

89 What was the first object of their attention ? 

90 What number perished before spring? 

91 At what time was Boston founded ? 

92 31 Wliat distinguished lady fell a victim ? 

93 How many perished before December ? 

94 Wliat was one great object of the puritans ? 

95 "VSHiat ordinance was passed in 1631 ? 

96 Were the Indians numerous, at that time, in New England? 

97 32 When were representatives first chosen ? 

98 Who was banished from Salem? For what cause? 

99 What distinguished emigrants came in 1635? 

100 Relate their history. 

101 33 Who were detained by king Charles ? 

102 What was the cause of the first war with the Indiansi 

103 34 With what tribe was it carried on? 

104 Which party was victorious ? 

105 35 What cause put a stop to emigration? 

106 In what year did the colonies form a league ? 

107 36 What is said concerning the representatives and assistants ? 

108 "Which did New England favor, the king or parliament ? 

109 "^Vhat propositions did Cromwell make to the colonies? 

110 _ When was New Hampshire incorporated with Massachu- 

setts ? When was Maine ? 

111 37 What law was made against Quakers? [this time ? 

112 What distinguished individuals came to New England about 

113 How were they received ? Where did they reside ? 

114 39 What law was enacted by England in 1663 ? 

115 What measure was adopted by the king in 1664 ? 

116 "What was the conduct of the commissionerg ? 

117 40 How many towns and inhabitants did New England contain 

at the end of 50 years from the settlement of Plymouth 1 

118 "What were the causes of Philip's war ? 

119 41 "Where were the first acts of hostility committed ? 

120 Did the colonists suffer much injury from the savages ? 

121 In what manner was the war carried on 1 

122 42 "What was the result of the great battle fought December 18 ? 

123 What feeUngs did Philip exhibit? 

124 What was his fate ? 

125 43 "What losses were sustained in this war? 

126 "When was New Hampshire made a separate colony ? 

127 For what purpose was Edward Randolph sent over? 

128 What was done in relation to the charter? 

129 44 "Wliat was the character and c jnduct of Andross? 

130 How did the people ti'eat Andross and his adherents ? 

131 45 "What was the result of the expedition to Canada'? 

132 How did Massachusetts pay her troops? 

133 What were the provisions of the new charter ? 

134 Who was the first governor under the new charter ? 

135 What distinguished the commencement of his administration f 

136 46 What causes produced the delusion ? 



4 aUESTIONS. 

137 46 How many charged with witchcraft were executed f 

138 47 What law was passsed at the first session'? 

139 What war existed at this period / 

140 When was Deeriield attaclved ? 

141 How many \vere killed and made prisoners? 

142 48 Who were among the prisoners ? 

143 How were they treated / 

144 What \vas the Indian mode of ^va^•fare ? 
245 What expedition was fitted out in 1707 ? 

146 What in 1710 7 What was accomi)llshed ? 

147 What expedition was fitted out in 1711 ? 

148 49 What misfortune occurred to the fleet? 

149 What was the event of the expedition ? 

150 When was peace concluded ? 

151 What was the effect of this war upon New England ? 

152 Who was appointed governor in 1716 ? 

153 50 What question agitated the people when he arrived ? 

154 What act of his displeased the assembly? 

155 AVhose conduct did the people approve ? 

156 What vote was passed respecting the governor's salary ? 

157 What instructions did the king give ?^ 

158 Did the assembly comply ? 

159 What steps did the governor take ? 

160 51 Who was the next governor ? 

161 What took place between him and the assembly ? 

162 How was the controversy suspended 7 

163 52 Who succeeded governor Burnett 1 

164 How was the long controversy terminated ? 

165 Who was appointed govei-nor in 1740 ? 

166 What event occurred in 1744 ? 

167 From what port were privateers fitted out ? 

168 What expedition was concerted in 1745 ? 

169 By whom was it proposed ? 

170 53 Did the General Court in the end agree to it? 

171 What colonies furnished assistance ? 

172 What naval force co-operated ? 

173 54 What fortunate events occurred 7 

174 What was the result of the expedition 7 

175 55 What measure did France adopt the next summer 7 

176 At what time was peace concluded 7 

177 What were the terms of this peace 7 

178 What became of the bills of credit 7 

CHAPTEH ni. 

179 55 WTiich wasthe parent of the New England colonies 7 

180 To whom were the first giants made in New Hampshire ? 

181 56 W hen were the first settlements made 7 Where 7 

182 When was the first house built at Portsmouth 7 

183 Of whom did Wheelright purchase land 7 

184 What town did he found 7 [and Exeter 7 

185 When was civil government established in Dover, Portsmouth 

186 What steps did these towns take in 1G41 7 

187 Of whom did the emigi-ants purchase lands 7 

188 What settlements suffered in Philip's war 7 



aUESTIONS. s 

Os. Pe. 

389 56 'When was New Hampshire made a separate province? 

190 What law was passed in 1 680 ? 

191 57 What disputes arose on the amval of Mason ? 

192 Who was appointed goveraor after Andross was deposed t 

193 Did this colony suffer much from Indian wars ? 
294 What town was surprised in 1689 ? 

195 Give an account of that event. 

196 58 In what year was Londonderry settled ? By whom 1 

197 What did they introduce 7 

198 59 ^Vhy did J. T. Mason claim the lands of his ancestors? 

199 To whom did he convey them ? 

200 What did they do to silence opposition ? 

201 How were the Masonian lauds granted 1 

CHAPTER IV. 

202 59 To whom was Connecticut first granted ? 

203 How far westward did the grant extend ? 

204 By whom was a fort erected at Hart ford 1 

205 By whom was a trading house erected at Windsor ? 

206 GO By whom were Weathersfield and Windsor settled? 

207 For what purpose did VVinthrop come from England*? 

208 Did the Dutch attempt to molest him ? 

209 WHiat persons laid the foundation of Hartford ? 

210 "Whose authority did the first emigrants acknowledge ? 

211 When did the freemen form a constitution? 

212 State the sxxbstance of this constitution. 

213 61 By whom was Sayhrook settled? Whence the namel 

214 What did Fenwick transfer to the General Court? 

215 By Avhat persons was New Haven founded ? 

216 Was it a distinct colony ? 

217 By what laws were they first governed ? 

218 62 With whom had both colonies'disputes ? 

219 How was partition made in 1650 ? 

220 Did the Dutch continue friendly ? 

221 What did Connecticut propose to the confederacy ? 

222 What was the conduct of Massachusetts ? 

223 63 What did Cromwell do ? 

224 Did the inhabitants obtain a charter? 

225 What temtorj^ did it comprehend 1 

226 Did New Haven willingly consent to a union 1 

227 When were the two colonies unked ? [charter 1 

228 64 What circumstances occuiTed when Andross demanded a 

229 Did Connecticut retain her charter? 

230 65 What demand did Fletcher make of Connecticut ? 

231 How was he treated? 

232 When was Yale College founded ? 

233 When was Sayhrook platform adopted? 

234 What did this platform relate to ? 

235 66 What cause tended to preserve the peace of Connecticit? 

CHAPTER V. 

236 66 When was Rhode Island settled? By whom ? 

237 Why was he baiiished from Massachoaetts? 



6 aUESTIONS. 

a8.Pr. 

238 66 What did he call the place where he settled 7 

239 What regulations did he adopt 7 

240 Who repaired to Rhode Island in 1638 7 

241 67 Did Rhode Island apply to be admitted into the league? 

242 What -was the decision of the commissionera ? 

243 Did Rhode Island consent to the tenns ? 

244 When was the first general assembly held 7 

245 When did the colony obtain a charter 7 

246 What were the provisions of this charter 7 

247 What law was passed relative to the duakers ? 

248 W"hat secured the colony exemption from Indian hostility? 

249 What was the population in 1730 ? In 1761 7 

250 When was Brown university founded? 

CHAPTER VI. 

251 68 By whom was New York discovered 7 When 7 

252 In what service did Hudson sail ? 

253 By whom and wlien was a fort erected near Albany, and 

trading houses at New York ? 

254 What was Albany then called ? What was New York? 

255 What event occurred soon after 7 

256 W^hen and ■where was fort Amsterdam erected 7 

257 To what company did the republic of Holland make a grant 7 

258 How far did the grant extend ? 

259 What was the territory called 7 

260 Where did the Dutch erect forts in 1623 ? 

261 With whom did this produce quarrels 7 

262 When did war break out between the Dutch f\nd Indians ? 

263 69 Who commanded the Dutch troops ? 

264 In what place was a battle fought 7 [E nglish 7 

265 Who agreed on a line of partition between the Dutch and 

266 To whom did the king of England grant New York 1 

267 What measure was thereupon taken 7 

268 Did the expedition sent out succeed? 

269 What names were changed 7 

270 Who assumed the government of the country 7 

271 When was New York made a city 7 

272 70 VVhat event happened in 1673 7 

273 How long did the Dutch retain possession 7 

274 Whom did the duke of York appoint governor? 

275 To what religious sect did both belong ? 

276 When was the first assembly held ? 

277 By what people was the interior of New York inhabited ? 

278 Of whom were they the allies ? 

279 Who led an army against them 7 

280 71 What was he obliged to do 7 

281 What Indian chief addressed the French governor 7 

282 Recite his speech. 

283 72 What effect had this speech on the French governor 7 

284 Why was the duke of York disliked when he became king ? 

285 What encouraged the disaffected ? 

286 73 What measures did Leisler and Milbome undertake 7 

287 What did Bayard and Courtlandt do ? 



aUESTlONS. 

Ue. Pff. 

288 What authority did Leisler assume? Why 7 

289 74 What did Milborne effect 7 

290 What parties were despatched against the Englishl 

291 Describe the attack of Schenectady. 

292 75 What was done to avenge these barbarities ? 

293 To what was the failure of the expedition attributed 1 

294 Whom did king VVilHam apijoint governor 1 

295 What was the character of this governor 7 

296 What sentence was passed on Leisler and Milborne 7 

297 76 What was their fate? 

298 By whom were the French settlements attacked ? 

299 Who was appointed governor in 1692 ? 

300 What object was he desirous of effecting ? 

301 What took place in consequence of his recommendation '" 

302 77 When was the earl of Bellamont oppointed governor? 

303 In what measure did he engage ? 

304 Relate the conduct and fate of captain Kid. 

305 Into what parties were the people divided ? 
806 When was lord Cornbury appointed governor ? 

307 Wliat were his parentage and character ? 

308 In what manner did he behave ? 

309 78 "What followed his removal from office ? 

310 What resolution was passed 7 

311 In what year did governor Hanter arrive 7 

312 What people came with him 7 

313 What is the character of their descendants ? 

314 What dispute arose between the house and council ? 

315 "W^hat enterprise was projected in 1709 ? In 1711 ? 

316 79 What was the result of the latter ? 

317 Did the people justify their representatives ? 

318 State the progress and termination of the dispute between the 

house and council. 

319 Who succeeded governor Hunter ? 

320 ^Vhat projects had the French in view ? 

321 What did governor Burnet do to defeat it ? 

322 80 When was die assembly, elected in 1716, dissolved 7 

323 W^hat fort d id the F rench erect while Van Dam was governor? 

324 Who succeeded Van Dam? 

325 What precaution was instigated by governor Cosby 1 

326 What honor was conferred on one of his defenders? 

327 When was Clark appointed lieutenant-governor ? 

328 81 What dispute was revived between him and the Assembly ? 

329 Which party was triumphant at the next election 7 

330 Recite the address of the house to the governor ? 

331 What did he say in his next speech ? 

332 82 What resolve did the house pass ? 

333 What plot was supposed to be concerted about this time 1 

334 What was the supposed object of the plot ? 

335 Row many were burned ? Hung? Transported? 

336 83 Wliatdid Clark allude to in his speech? 

337 W^henwas George Clinton appointed governor? 

338 VThat happened in 1745? 

339 When did peace take place ? 

2E 



8 aUESTIONS. 

^, p^ CHAPTER VII. 

340 84 By whom was New Jersey settled ? When? Where 1 

341 When and where did the Swedes and Finns settle ? 

342 What happened in 1655 7 

343 What territory did the Dutch possess ? 

344 How was it taken from them ? 

345 85 To whom was it conveyed 7 

346 To whom did the duke convey New Jersey ? 

347 Why was it so called ? 

348 Who was the first governor ? 

349 W^hat was the origin of the disputes that arose ? 

350 Did the people revolt 1 Did they submit ? 

351 To whom did Berkeley dispose of his right ? 

352 Who wei-e appointed trustees to sell it 1 

353 What partition was agreed on 7 

354 Was a new patent granted to the duke 1 

355 86 On what did Andross insist ? 

356 Whatdidhedo7 

357 Recite the address to the commissioners. 

358 What was their decision? 

359 87 To whom was East Jersey transferred in 1682 ? 

360 Who was appointed governor over it ? 

361 By whom were the Jerseys reunited 7 

362 When was Princeton College founded 7 

363 What was then the number of inhabitants ? 

CHAPTER VIII. 

364 87 By whom was Delaware first settled ? 

365 88 What did they call the country ? 
3C6 Vvliere did they seat themselves? 

367 Why and where did they build forts ? 

368 Where did the Dutch build a fort ? 

369 In what manner did the Swedes gain possession of it 

370 What course did governor Stuyvesant pursue 7 

371 How long did the Dutch retain possession ? 

372 What purchase did William Penn make? 

373 What name was given to the tracts purchased 7 

374 To what colony were they united 7 

375 When did a separation take place 7 

CHAPTER IX. 

376 89 Who was the founder of Pennsylvania 1 
Z77 To what religious sect did he belong ? 

378 Why was the country gi-antedto him ? 

379 At what price was land sold 7 

380 At what rate was it rented ? 

381 h\ what year did the settlers leave E ngland 7 

382 90 What position did they select for a settlement ? 

383 What was the object of Penn's frame of government ? 

384 What people, and how many, did he iPjid upon the "terri- 

385 Where was the first assembly held ? [tories"? 

386 What city did Penn found ? 

387 91 For what qualities are the Pennsylvanians distinguished 7 



aUESTIONS 9 

388 91 Whatpai-ty did Penn adhere to at the time of the Engh'sh 

389 How was he treated ? [revolution 1 

390 92 Did he regain the favor of the king ? _ 

39 1 When did he again visit Pennsylvania ? 

392 What took place in 1701 ? 

393 How was the executive authority afterwards administered ? 

394 What caused the most irritation ? 

395 Did the colony prosper ? 

396 What took place at the commencement of the revolution ? 

397 What sum was paid in discharge of quit-rents ? 

CHAPTER X. 

398 93 By whom was Mai-y land founded 7 

399 To what religious sect did he belong ? 

400 After whom was the colony named 1 

401 Who was appointed the first govei-nor ? 

402 W' hen did the first settlers arrive ? Where ? 

403 What land did they purchase ? 

404 What circumstances favored the rapid population of the colony? 

405 94 When and how was a house of assembly formed '? 

406 "W^hat alteration was made in 1650 ? 

407 What fact is honorable to lord Baltimore and his associates 1 

408 What disturbance was produced 1 By whom ? 

409 95 Wliat was the result of the disturbances ? 

410 Wliat ordinance was passed by the victorious party ? 

411 What was the number of inhabitants in 1660 ? 

412 W^hen did lord Baltunorc die 1 

413 W^hat was his character ? 

414 What occurred in 1689 ? 

415 96 ^Vhat directions did king Williain give ? 

416 When was the pi'oprietor restored to his rights ? 

417 What occurred in the conunencement of the revolution ? 

CHAPTER XL 

418 96 W^hat territory was granted, in 1630, to sir Robert Heath ? 

419 By what persons was a settlement formed north of Albermarle 

420 What settlement was made in 1661 7 By whom ? [sound ? 

421 97 What grant was made in 1663 ? 

422 What assurances were given to emigrants ? 

423 Who prepared a constitution for the colony ? 

424 What were the provisions of this constitution ? 

425 Was it acceptable to the inhabitants? 

426 What settlement was made in 1670 1 

427 In which of the Caroliuas, as now divided, was it made ? 

428 98 What was the character and conduct of Seth Sothel ? 

429 When was the constitution of Locke abrogated ? 

430 How were the two provinces afterwards governedl 

431 What emigrants came in 1707 ? In 1710 ? 

432 What calamity fell upon them 1 

433 99 Whither did the Tuscaroras emigrate f 

434 What proceedings took place in 1729 ? 

43a In what part of North CaroUna did the settlements increaa© 
most rapidly ? 



10 aUESTIONS. 

^ p^ CHAPTER XII. 

436 100 When was the first settlement made at Port Royal ? 

437 "When was old Charleston founded ? 

438 When did the freemen elect representatives ? 

439 When did they meet to elect them 1 

440 WTience did emigrants come ? 

441 When was the present city of Charleston founded ? 

442 What did the proprietors direct in regard to the French 

443 Was opposition made? By whom 7 [Protestants 7 

444 101 What did these Protestants' do ? 

445 Why was John Archdale sent over ? 

446 What di d he effect ? 

447 What did Granville and Moore attempt ? 

448 What law was passed 7 

449 102 What was the conduct of the lords and the queen ? 

450 What expeditions were undertaken in 1702 ? 

451 "What occurred in 1706 ? What in 1715 ? [Indians 1 

452 103 What suffei'ings were occasioned by the war with the 

453 What measure did the assembly adopt ? 

454 What emigrants w^ere induced to come 1 

455 What was their fate ? 

456 104 What occurred in 1719 ? 

457 How was the government afterwards administered? 

458 What occurred in 1738 ? 

459 105 Was the insurrection quelled ? 

460 From what countries did emigrants oome ? 

CHAPTER XIII. 

461 105 Where is Georgia situated ? 

462 What project was concerted in 1732 ? 

463 To whom was Georgia granted ? 

464 106 What regulations did the Trustees provide ? 

465 When did the first emigrants embark? 

466 Who was placed at their head ? 

467 What was the conduct of the Carolinians ? 

468 How many emigrants came the next year ? 

469 What was the character of these emigrants 7 

470 What offer was made to induce a different class to emigrate ? 

471 Where did the Germans settle 7 Where the Scotch ? 

472 Who made a visit to Georgia in 1736 7 

473 What was his object? 

474 Who came tw^o years afterwards 7 

475 107 In 1740. how many emigi-antshad arrived ? 

476 What was the amount of benefactions 7 

477 What expedition did general Oglethorp undertake ? 

478 Was it successful 7 

479 What afterwards occurred 7 

480 108 What event occurred when Oglethorpe was marching to at- 

tack the Spaniards? 

481 W hat expedient did he devise 1 

482 109 How did the invasion end ? 

483 110 What occun-ed in 1754 7 

484 What products were cultivated 1 



aUESTIONS. 11 

„ „ CHAPTER XIV. 

485 110 In what year was the treaty between France and England 

concluded, which restored tranquility to America ? 

486 What was the number of inhabitants in the thirteen colonies 

at that period ? 

487 "Where were the English settlements 1 Where the French? 

488 What design had the French in view ? 

489 What did the company of E nglish traders do ? 

490 What was the conduct of the French ? 

491 111 Whom did governor Dinwiddie send as messenger to the 

French commander ? [answer 7 

492 "What course did governor Dinwiddie take on receiving the 

493 What was the result of Washington's expedition ? 

494 "When "was the Albany plan of union formed 7 

495 "V\^hat did this plan provide ? 

496 112 Why was it rejected in England? Why in America? 

497 Wliat expeditions were resolved upon in 1755 7 

493 Relate the object and resultof the expedition to Nova Scotia. 

499 Who commanded the expedition against fort Du duesne? 

500 113 "VS^'hat was the result of the expedition ? 

501 114 Who commanded the expedition against Niagara 

502 "Was he successful ? 

503 115 Who commanded the expedition against Crown Point T 

504 Relate what happened to this expedition. 

505 116 Was it abandoned ? 

506 What expeditions were proposed the next year ? 

507 "Wliy was Massachusetts disgusted ? How appeased ? 

508 117 Who was appointed to succeed Shirley? 

509 Had war been declared beetween France and England 1 

510 Who was appointed conmiander-in-chief ? 

511 What post did general Montcalm take ? 

512 118 What had been accomplished in this campaign ? 

513 To what did the ministry direct the attention of lord Loudon! 

514 Did he effect the object ? 

515 119 Widi whatforce did Montcahn besiege fort "William Henry ? 

516 Where is that fort situated ? 

517 "Who was sent to command it ? 

518 Relate the circumstances and result of the siege. 

519 120 "What effect had these disasters upon the British nation ? 

520 Whom did the king appoint prime minister ? [paign ? 

521 "What expeditions were determined on for the next cam- 

522 121 Who commanded that against Louisburg ? 

523 Who served under him 7 

524 How did the siege tenninatc 7 

525 "What was the result of the attack on Ticonderoga 7 

526 What fort did colonel Bradsti'eet capture 7 

527 122 Who commanded the expedition against Du Q,uesne7 

528 "What disaster occun-ed to it ? 

529 "Was it successful ? 

530 "Where was the fort situated ? 

631 "What was the plan vif the next campaign ? 

532 What was the event of the expedition against Niagara f 



12 aUESTIONS 

Os. Pg. 

533 123 What success did general Armherst meet with 1 

534 Who commanded the expedition against Quebec 7 

535 What was the condition of that place 7 

536 When and where did Wolfe land his army 7 

537 Where does Quebec stand 7 

538 J 24 Where did a battle take place 7 What the event 7 

539 What plan did Wolfe then form 1 

540 125 In what manner did he gain the heights of Abraham 7 

541 What did Montcalm then do 7 

542 What was the fate of Wolfe ? Of Montcalm 7 

543 126 What was the consequence of the battle 1 

544 When was peace concluded 7 

545 What did France cede to Great Britain ? 

CHAPTER XV. 

546 126 Howmuchwasaddedtothe debt ofEngland, in the late war? 
647 Whence did her legislators seek assistance ? 

548 127 What relation was supposed to exist between the mother 

country and her colonies? 
649 What restrictions had Great Britain imposed 7 

550 What law was enacted in 1764 ? 

551 VVhat resolution was proposed 7 

552 In what courts were penalties to be recovered 1 

553 What measuresdid the colonies adopt 7 

654 128 Recite the 8th and 9th sections. 

655 129 When was the stamp-act proposed 7 

556 What language was used in supporting it ? 
657 Recite Col. Barre's speech. 

558 130 Did the bill pass 7 

559 What look place in Virginia w^hen the news arrived 7 

560 131 What resolve was passed in Massachusetts ? [England? 

561 What was the name of the associations formed in New 

562 What occurred in Boston ? What in Newport 7 

563 132 How did the citizens of New York conduct ? 

564 What title did they give to the stamp-act 7 

565 \Vhen did the Congress assemble? 

566 What were the proceedings of this Congress 7 

567 What agreements were adopted 7 

568 133 What was proposed in the British parliament 7 

569 What did Mr. Grenville say ? 

570 Recite WilUam Pitt's speech. 

571 134 What were the proceedings of parliament 1 [dissatisfied ? 

572 135 Why were the people of New England and New York still 

573 For what cause was the assembly of New York suspended ? 

574 What measure was adopted in June, 1767 7 

575 What course did the General Court of Massachusettspursue ? 

576 How were they punished 7 

577 What measures were then adopted in Massachusetts ? 

578 136 What step was taken by general Gage ? 

579 137 State what resolutions had been adopted in parliament. 

580 What re solutions were adopted in Virginia ? 

581 What did the governor do ? 

582 What then ensued ? 



QUESTIONS. 13 

Gfl. Pg. 

583 137 State what occurred Jn State-street, Boston. 

584 138 To what place were the troops removed? 

585 What trials took place ? 

586 Wlio defended the accTised ? 

587 "Were they convicted ? 

588 139 What measure did parliament adopt ? [ments ? 

589 WTiat alteration was made in the non importation agree- 

CHAPTER XVI. 

590 139 What causes contributed to increase the discontent which 

previously existed in Massachusetts ? [mended ? 

591 1*40 By whom were committees of correspondence recom- 

592 What was the object and what the effect of them ? 

593 What letters did Dr. Franklin obtain and send over ? 

594 What effect did these lettershave ? 

595 Wliat measure did the East India Company adopt ? 

596 Wliat was done in Philadelphia and New York ? 

597 141 WTiat was the state of public feeling in Boston 1 

598 What resolution was adopted by the citizens ? 

599 What proceedings followed 1 

600 Recite Josiah duincy's speech. 

601 142 What was done with the tea? 

602 What acts were passed by parliament 7 

603 143 How was the first day of June observed in Virginia 7 

604 What spirit was displayed by the citizens of Salem ? [setts? 

605 What was recommendedby the General Court of Massachu- 

606 144 When did the delegates meet ? 

607 What resolutions did they adopt ? [abroad 7 

608 What effect had tlieir proceedings on public sentiment 

609 145 Recite Mr. Pitt's speech. 

610 By what names were the Americans distinguished ? 

611 146 What measures did governor Gage adopt ? 

612 When did a provincial Congress meet ? 

613 What conciliatory proposition was adopted in parliament? 

614 Did the Americans accept it ? 

615 147 When did the battle of Lexiugton take place 7 

616 148 What was the result? What the effect? 

617 What expedition was projected in Connecticut 1 

618 149 By whom was it executed ? 

619 What posts were taken ? 

620 What British generals an-ived in Jane ? 

621 What proclamation was issued ? 

622 150 Why did the provincials resolve to occupy Bunker Hill 7 

623 Who commanded the provincial troops ? 

624 On what day was the battle fought 7 

625 151 Relate the principal events of the battle. 

626 152 How many Americans were killed and wounded ? 

627 How many British ? 

628 Did the result dispirit the Americans ? 

629 What eminent man was killed ? 

630 \Vhat measures were adopted by the continental Congress? 

631 Wlio was chosen commander-in-chief ? 

632 153 What other officers were chosen ? 



14 aUESTIONS. 

as. ?g. 

633 153 What mode was adopted to defray expenses ? 

634 What declaration was issued ? 

635 Recite the extracts inserted. 

636 154 To what place did Washington repair 7 

637 How numerous did he liud the army ? 

638 155 What occurred in Virginia ? 

639 ^Vhat in North Carolina 7 

640 156 What in South Carolina ? What in Georgia 7 

641 What in New York? Who was made governor there 7 

642 What resolution, referring to him, was passed by Congress 7 

643 What was done and projected in 1775 / 

644 157 What was done in New Hampshire 7 

645 What transactions occurred in October ? 

646 158 How was the new army to be raised ? 

647 How many enlisted 7 

648 What "works w^ere erected in March ? 

649 159 "What did general Howe attempt ? 

650 Failing in this, what did he then detenniue ? 

651 When was Boston evacuated ? 

652 To what place did the American army proceed 7 

653 Whither did the B ritish fleet steer 7 

CHAPTER XVn. 

654 159 How many expeditions were despatched against Canada ? 

655 What did governor Carleton do ? 

656 160 Who proceeded in advance 7 VVhy 7 

657 On whom did the chief command devolve ? 

658 W'h.at did colonels Allen and Brown attempt ? 

659 What was the fate of Allen ? 

660 161 What fortunate event occurred in October 7 

661 What other victory was achieved ? 

662 When was St. John's sun-endered ? 

663 To what place did Montgomeiy then repair ? 

664 162 With how manj' men did he begin his march to Quebec 7 

665 Who commanded the other expedition ? 

666 How many did it consist of 7 

667 Describe their route. 

663 Were their sufterings great ? 

669 163 When did they an-ive at the French settlements ? 

670 When did he cross the river ? 

671 Where did he encamp 7 

672 When did Montgoraeiy arrive ? 

673 To what did their united force amotint 7 

674 164 How strong were the enemy ? 

675 What did the general first determine 7 

676 What disease broke out in the camp ? 

677 W hat was proposed and resolved upon 7 

678 165 When was the city assaulted ? 

679 What disastrous event occurred ? 

680 W^hat happened to Arnold ? 

681 Who assumed the command ? 

682 166 How did the attack terminate ? 

683 What was the amount of the American loss ? 



aUESTIONS. 15 

Qa. Tg. 

684 166 Where was Montgomery's monument placed 7 

685 167 How far from the city did Arnold encamp ? 

686 When did general Thomas arrive from Roxbury ? 

687 What was then done ? 

688 To what place did the Americans retreat ? 

689 168 What occuiTcd at the cedars ? 

690 Who succeeded general Thomas ? 

691 Of how many did his army consist 7 

692 How strong ^vas the enemy 1 

693 Where did'Sallivan halt? 

CHAPTER XVIIL 

694 169 What reply was made when the last petition was presented 

to the kir.'g '? 

695 What treaties were made with German princes 7 

696 What expedition was despatched in 1776 ? 

697 Who was appointed commander of the British naval forces ? 

698 What preparations were made at Charleston ? 

699 170 Relate what occurred in the attack on Sullivan's Island. 

700 What was the effect of this battle ? 

701 171 What able pamphlet was published at this time ? 

702 172 Who proposed, in congress, a declaration of independence T 

703 Who seconded the motion ? 

704 W^ho were the committee appointed to prepare it ? 

705 On what day was it adopted? 

706 Recite the 17th section. 

707 173 What was done at New York ? 

708 How was the American army posted ? 

709 Where did the British troops first land ? 

710 How were the two armies posted on Long Island ? 

711 174 Describe the battle which took place. 

712 Which gained the victory ? 

713 Whither did Washington retreat 7 

714 175 Where did he take post in September ? 

715 What did the enemy then do 7 

716 What calamity happened to the city? 

717 What jjlan of warfare did Washington adopt? 

718 To what place did he next repair ? 

719 What was the result of the battle there fought 7 

720 What fort was attacked 7 

721 Where was it situated 7 

722 176 Which gained the victory ? 

723 What then followed ? 

724 What proclamation was issued ? 

725 177 To what place did Congress remove ? 

726 With what power did they invest Washington 1 

727 What happened to general Lee ? 

728 What was the behavior of the British ? 

729 What brilliant victory was achieved ? 

730 178 What other exploit was performed ? 

731 Who was among the wounded 7 

732 W^hat followed 7 

733 What effect had these victories 1 



le auESTioNs. 

^^ p^ CHAPTER XIX. 

734 179 What spii'it did Con,s?rcss exhibit 1 

735 What measures did they take ? 

736 W^ho were sent commissioners to France 

737 What did the French ministry pennit ? [teers T 

738 Of what valae were the prizes made by American priva- 

739 180 Wliat distinguished Frenchman joined the Americans / 

740 What appointment did he receive ? 

741 How were the American pi'isoners treated ? 

742 181 To what place did Howe transport his troops 7 

743 Whither did Washington march ? 

744 Which gained the victory at Brandy wine creek / 

745 What officer was wounded 7 

746 To what place did Washington eventually retreat? 

747 When did Howe enter Philadelphia 7 

748 182 W^hat was the result of the battle on Lake Champlain? 

749 What expedition was concerted in the winter? 

750 By whom was it to be commanded ? 

751 What American commanded the northern department ? 

752 183 To what place did Burgoyne despatch St. Leger 7 

753 When did he appear before Ticondei'Oga ? 

754 What was the number of his army ? 

755 When was Ticonderoga evacuated ? 

756 To what place did the Americans eventually retreat? 

757 What intelligence v/as received from St. Leger 7 

758 184 What was the effect of the American proclamation ? 

759 Whither did Burgoyne despatch Baum? 

760 Who commanded the American militia 7 

7C1 Which gained the victory on the 16th of August ? 

762 What occun-ed afterwards 7 

763 What was tlie etfect of the victory at Bennington / 

764 185 What was the fate of St. Leger's expedition 7 

765 Who were appointed to command the American anny ? 

766 Describe the first battle of Stillwater. 

767 186 Describe the second. 

768 What was done by general Vaughan ? 

769 To what place did I3urgoyne retreat? 

770 187 When did he surrender 7 

771 188 Describe the battle of Germantown. [Mifflin. 

772 State the result of the assault upon Red Bank and upon fort 

773 Where did Washington's army pass the winter ? 

CHAPTER XX. 

774 189 When was tlie Confederation adopted ? 

775 What powers did it confer on Congress ? 

776 What right did the states reserve 7 

777 Who was appointed inspector-general 1 

778 190 What treaties were made with France? 

779 What act was passed by the British parliament ? [Reed. 

780 State what took place between the commissioners and Joseph 

781 What course did Great Britain Pursue ? 

>82 191 When did the British army quit Philadelphia ? 
783 Did a battle take place soon after ? Where ? 



I 



auESTioNs. n 

Qs, Fg. 

784 191 Who commanded the Americans? 

785 What was the result of tlie battle ? 

786 VVnat charges were made against Leel 

787 What was his sentence 1 

788 192 What assistance arrived from France ? 

789 What enterprise was then projected ? 

790 Who commanded the American troops'? 

791 What occurred at sea ? 

792 What was Sullivan compelled to do 7 

793 193 What towns were attacked and ravaged? 

794 Relate what occurred at Tappan. 

795 How and where did Washington's army pass the winter! 

CHAPTER XXI. 

796 194 By what was the campaign of 1779 distinguished ? 

797 What expedition sailed from New York ? 

798 What did the enemy effect in Georgia ? 

799 "Who took command in the southern department 1 

800 What occurred at Savannah ? 

801 195 What other expedition sailed from New York? 

802 What did it accomplish 1 

803 "V^^'hat expedition did Clarke undertake 1 

804 "^^^hat was his success 1 [ditian ? 

805 WHiat were the purpose and success of Sullivan's expe* 

806 196 What towns were burnt in Connecticut ? 

607 V/hat exploit was performed by general Wayne ? 

808 What naval battle was fought in September 1 

809 197 W^here did the northern anny pass the winter ? 

810 Were their sufferings great ? 

811 How much paper money had been issued ? 

812 How much had it depreciated 7 

813 What new mode was adopted to supply the army 7 

CHAPTER XXII. 

814 198 What place did the enemy besiege in the spring ? 
615 Who were the opposing commanders ? 

816 199 WTiat was the event of the siege ? 

817 What exploit did colonel Tarleton perform ? 

818 What conduct of general Clinton excited indignation ? 

819 200 What service did Sumpter render ? 

820 Who led an army from the north ? 

821 Describe the battle near Camden. 

822 201 What occurred at the Catawba ford ? 

823 What conduct did Comwallis adopt ? 

924 Who was a successful leader of the patriots ? 

825 Who was appointed coimnander of the tories ? 

826 202 Where was he posted 7 

827 By whom was he attacked, and what was the resaltl 
928 Who was appointed to succeed Gates? 

829 Where was the northern army posted ? 

830 What were their sufferings and conduct ? 

831 What squadron and troops arrived in July / 

832 203 What project was disconcerted 7 How » 



18 aUESTIONS. 

as. Pg. 

833 203 What disaffected Arnold? 

834 What plot did he meditate ? 

835 With whom had he an interview ? 

836 Relate the circmnstances of Andre's capture. 

837 204 WTiat was his conduct ? What his fate ? 

838 205 How much did Arnold receive 1 

839 WTiat occuiTed at Morristown ? 

840 What were the complaints ofthe soldiers ? 

841 206 How was the mutiny appeased ? 

842 What did the states do 'i 

CHAPTER XXni. 

843 206 What project was resumed in the spring of 1781 1 

844 What delayed its accomplishment ? * 

845 207 What commander fought the battle of the Cowpens . 

846 What was the result ? 

847 What did Cornwallis attempt ? 

848 What occurred on the retreat 7 

849 208 Describe the engagement between Lee and the toriesT 
85C 209 Give an account of the battle at Guilford court-house. 

851 Where did Greene halt '? 

852 Whither did Cornwallis proceed 7 

853 AVhich was victorious at Hobkirk's hill 1 

&54 What posts were captured in South Carolina ? 

855 210 What was the event of the siege of Ninety-Six ? 

856 211 Describe the battle of Eutaw. 

857 To what place did Cornwallis repair ? 

858 Why was he recalled to the sea-board ? 

859 212 What posts did he fortify ? 

860 What did Washington determine to do 7 

861 What expedition did Clinton despatch 7 

862 What did it accomplish ? 

863 213 What news did Washington receive at Chester 7 

864 Of how many troops did the allied forces consist ? 

865 When was the cannonade begun ? 

866 214 What occurred during the siege ? 

867 When did Cornwallis surrender ? 

868 What was the number of prisoners ? 

869 What emotions did this victory produce in America ? 

870 215 What were thefeelingsof the'British nation ? 

871 What ofthe king 7 

872 What opinion did the house of commons express ? 

873 When were pacific overtures made 7 

874 When did hostilities cease ? 

875 Who were the American ministers ? 

876 216 Who was the British minister? 

877 When was the definitive treaty signed 7 

878 217 Why were the American troops dissatisfied ? 

879 What occurred at Newburg ? 

880 When was the army disbanded 7 

881 218 When was Nev/ York evacuated 7 

882 When did Washington resign his commission ? 
88*) To what place did he retire J 



aUESTIONS. 1» 

^ „ CHAPTER XXIV. 

884 218 What was the state of the country at the close of the war ? 

885 How much had national securities depreciated ? 

886 What prevented the prosperity of commerce 1 

887 219 What occurred in Massachusetts ? 

888 What was the result of the meeting at Annapolis ? 

889 220 WTiat resolution did Congress adopt 1 

890 WTien did the convention meet ? 

891 WTio was chosen president of it ? 

892 Did they agree upon a constitution 1 [federation ? 

893 In what does this constitution differ from the articles of con- 

894 What is said of the members of the house ? 

895 WTiat of the senators ? 

896 WTiat of the president ? 

897 221 What of the vice-president? 

898 W^hat is required in passing a law ? 

899 What powers are conferred on Congress 1 

900 What is said of the judicial department ? 

901 What objections were made to the Constitution 7 

902 222 By what names were its friends and opposers styled 7 

903 By how many states was it ratified? 

904 Who was elected first president ? Who vice-president ? 

905 When was the president inaugurated 1 

906 223 What duties were laid ? 

907 What departments were established 7 

908 WTio were appointed secretaries 1 

909 WTiat tour did the president make ? 

910 224 What did Hamilton recommend ? 

911 For what reasons washis recommendation opposed ? 

912 Was it adopted '] What was the amount of debt funded 1 

913 225 Why were the duties on distilled spirits proposed ? 

914 When were they laid ? 

915 When was the bank incorporated 1 

916 When did North Carolina adopt the constitution ? 

917 When did Rhode Island 1 

918 Where is Vermont situated? 

919 By what states had the ten-itoiy been claimed? 

920 What did the inhabitants do in 1777 ? 

921 In what year was Vermont admitted into the Union 7 

922 When was Kentucky admitted ? 

923 226 When was the first census completed ? 

924 What was the number of inhabitants ? 

925 How many were slaves ? 

926 State the amount of the revenue, imports and exports. 

927 When was the war with the Creeks terminated ? 

928 With what tribes did war still exist 1 

929 WTao commanded the troops sent against them 7 

930 State the circumstances and result of the battle. 

931 227 Who were next elected president and vice-president 7 

932 What occurred in France, at this period 7 

933 228 What were the feelings of the Americans and French 7 

934 Who was appointed minister to the United States ? 

2F 



20 aUESTIONS. 

Qb. Pg. 

935 228 What anthoritj'- did he assume ? 

936 229 What course did the president take ? 

937 Who was appointed to succeed St. Clair 7 

938 230 Was he successful 1 

939 When and where did he conclude a treaty 1 

940 W^hat produced discontent in Pennsylvania 7 

941 What meeting was held at Pittsburgh ? 

942 231 What measure did the president adopt ? 

943 Was the insurrection suppressed 7 

944 "What difficulties existed with England"? 

945 When did Mr. Jay conclude a treaty 1 

946 232 What appeared to be public sentiment in relation toitl 

947 Did the president ratify it ? 

948 What had been the conduct of Spain ? 

949 What did she deny to the western people ? 

950 233 When was a treaty with her concluded ? 

951 What privilege did it secure / 

952 When was a treaty concluded with Algiers ? 

953 When did Mr. Jefferson resign ? 

954 234 When did Hamilton ? When did Knox? 

955 What was the conduct of Fauchet ? 

956 235 VAHio was appointed minister to France ? 

957 What did France wish ? 

958 What measures did she adopt? 

959 Who was appointed minister to France in 1796 ? 

960 236 What determination" did Washington form? 

961 State the substance of his farewell address. 

962 Who were brought forward as candid ates for the presidency? 

963 Who were chosen president and vice-president ? 

CHAPTER XXV. 

964 237 What was tlie purport of tlie despatches received from 

965 What laws were passed ? [France / 

966 W ho were appointed envoys to France ? 
9G7 What was the conduct of the Directory ? 

968 238 What was done by Congress 7 

969 Who was appointed to command the army 

970 What naval battles were fought? 

971 When was peace coiicluded ? 

972 When did Washington die ? 

973 What were the proceedings of the house ? 

974 239 What of the senate ? 

975 240 When did Congress first meet at Washington 7 

976 Who were the candidates for president and vice-president f 

977 How was the choice made 7 

978 Who were elected ? 

979 What causes rendered Mr. Adams unpopular ? 

980 241 What was done at the next session of Congress ? 

981 When was the second census taken 7 

982 What was the unmber of inhabitants? 

983 How much had it increased in ten years ? 

984 How much had the exports increased 1 

985 How much the reveime ? 



aUESTTONS. 21 

Qs. Pg 

986 241 To what should this prosperity be attributed 7 

987 "When was Ohio admitted? 

988 When was the right of deposit at New Orleans prohibited 1 

989 What proposition was made in Congress 7 

990 What course was adopted ? 

991 242 What was the price paid for Louisiana 7 

992 By whom and when was Louisiana discovered? 

993 When ceded to Spain ? 

994 When retroceded to France 1 

995 What were the inhabitants 7 

996 What occurred in the harbor of Tripoli 7 

997 What exploit did lieutenant Decatur perform 7 

998 243 What project did general Eaton undertake 7 

999 Describe his route. 

1000 When did he anive at Derne 7 

1001 244 What ensued at that city ? 

1002 What arrangement was made ? 

1003 Relate what occurred in New York, in 1804. 

1004 Who were chosen president and vice-president in 18047 

1005 245 Of whatwasBurr suspected in 1806 7 

1006 Was he apprehended ? 

1007 When and where was he tried 7 

1008 What was the verdict of the jury 7 

1009 What was the state of Europe at this period 7 

1010 246 What advantage did America derive 7 

1011 'What right did Great Britain claim ? 

1012 What aggressions were committed by British craisers? 

1013 State the purport of the Bi-itish orders, dated in 1806. 

1014 247 What decree was issued at Berlin ? 

1015 What was the etTect of these measures ? 

1016 What event occun-ed in June, 1807 7 

1017 What measures did the president adopt ? 

1018 W^hat course did the British government take 7 

1019 248 What important law was enacted 7 

1 020 What measures were adopted by Great Britain ? 

1021 What by Bonaparte? [England.? 

1022 What effect had the embargo upon the people of New 

1023 249 Mr. Jefferson declining, who was elected president 1 

1024 Who vice-president ? 

1025 What law was sub.stituted for the embargo ? 

1026 What arrangement was made with Ei-skiue 7 

1027 Was it ratified by Great Britain 7 

1028 250 Did Great Britain persist in her unfriendly conduct 7 

1029 What occurred on the coasts of Virginia 7 

1030 What did Mr. Foster propose ? [cruisers ? 

1031 251 How many vessels had been captured since 1803, by British 

1032 What did the president recommend 7 

1033 What laws were enacted ? 

1034 Relate what occurred ai Tippecanoe 7 

1035 252 What was the object of John Henry's mission ? 

1036 Did he meet with any success? 

1037 When was war declared 7 

1038 For what reasons was it condemned f 



M aUESTIONS. 

Q^ p^ CHAPTER XXVI. 

1039 253 Wliowas appointed commander-in-chief? 

1040 What other generals were appointed 1 

1041 When did Hull invade Canada ? 

1042 254 What events occurred in that quarter ? 

1043 Who led an expedition towards the territory of Michig-an f 

1044 255 For what pui-pose was an army assembled on the frontier 1 

1045 W^ho commanded this army ? 

1046 What post was assaulted ? With what success ? 

1047 256 Who succeeded Van Rensselaer ? 

1048 What abortive attempts did he make ? 

1049 What was done by general Dearborn'? 

1050 257 Describe the battle between the Constitution and Guem'ere. 

1051 258 What other naval victories were gained ? 

1 052 What was the number of prizes made during the first seven 

months of the war 7 

1053 259 Who were elected president and vice-president in 1812 7 

CHAPTER XXVII. 

1054 259 What tenns were offered to the British government ? 

1055 Why were the propositions of Great Britain rejected ? 

1056 What measures did Congress adopt '' 

1057 260 What took place at Frcnchtown ? 

1058 261 To what place did Harrison march ? 

1059 By whom was fort Meigs invested ? 

1060 What did general Clay attempt? 

1061 What success did he meet with 7 

1062 How did the siege terminate ? 

1063 Describe the attack upon York. 

1064 262 What general was killed there? 

1065 \\ hat fort was next attacked 7 

1066 What generals were made prisoners at Stony creek ? 

1067 What other misfortune followed ? 

1068 263 V\ hat post was attacked by the British? 

1069 Who commanded there? 

1070 Whaf was t'ne event of the attack ? 
1C71 What occurred on the sea-coast 7 

10T2 264 Describe the naval action fought Febi-uary 23d. 

1073 Describe the action between the Chesapeake and Shannon. 

1074 265 What were the last words of Lawrence ? 

1075 How was the victory received in England ? 

1076 What other contests took place at sea 7 

1077 266 Describe the affair at fort Stephenson. 

1078 What present did colonel Croghan receive ? 

1079 Who were the respective commanders on Lake Erie 1 

1080 267 What words were inscribed on Perry's Hag ? 
108J Relate the events of the battle. 

1082 Recite Perry's letter to Harrison. 

1083 What did Harrison effect 1 

1084 268 Who was appointed to command the army of the centre? 
] 085 What orders did he receive ? 

1086 What occurred while descending the St. Lawrence 7 



aUESTIONS. 23 

Qm. ?e. 

1 087 268 Why was the project ahandoned ? 

1088 269 What offer was made by the emperor of Russia ? 

1089 Who w^ere appointed commissioners 1 

1090 What laws were passed by Congress ? 

1091 What spirit was displayed by the southern Indian* * 

1092 270 What occurred at fort Minims? 

1093 Describe the battle at Tallushatchie ; at Talladega ; at 

Emuckfaw; atTohopeka. 

1094 271 What occurred at the Hickory ground ? 

1095 Recite Wetherford's speech. 

CHAPTER XXVIIL 

1096 272 What bounty was offered to recruits ? 

1097 What communication was received from Great Britain ? 

1098 Was the proposition accepted ? 

1099 Who were appointed additional commissioners? 

1100 What occurred at the river La Cole '? 

1101 "V^^ho was appointed to succeed Wilkinson 7 
■"102 What events had recently occurred in Europe ? 

1103 How were these events advantageous to Great Britain ? 

1104 273 Which partj'^ wa3 victorious at Chippewa? 

1105 Relate the events of the battle of Bridgewater. 

1106 274 What step did general Ripley take ? 

1107 By how many troops was fort Erie invested? 

1108 What was the event of the assault made by the enemy? 

1109 What of the sortie made by the besieged ? 

1110 275 W^hen was the seige abandoned ? 

1111 When did general Izard arrive from Plattsburgh ? 

1112 What expeditions proceeded from Canada ? 

1113 What was the object of each ? 

1114 What took place at the ford ? 

1115 276 What was the result of the battle on the lalt** ? 

1116 What did the B ritish army then do ? 

1117 What actions occuiTed at sea ? 

1118 277 Where were great exertions made for defence ? 

1119 When did the main body of the enemy land? 

1120 Where did the Americans make a stand ? 

1121 What occurred there ? 

1122 Vk-^hither did genei'al Winder retreat? 

1123 When did the enemy enter Washington ? 

1124 278 What was their conduct there ? 

1125 What took place at Alexandria ? 

1126 ViHiat did Ross next undertake ? 

1127 ^What was his fate ? 

1128 279 How was the fleet received ? 

1129 What was the event of this expedition ? 

1130 When did the convention meet at Hartford ? 

1131 What was enumerated and proposed in their address ? 

1132 280 What information was received from Ghent ? 

1133 What measures did Congress adopt ? 

1134 Who performed the duties of secretary of war ? 

1 135 Who was appointed secretary of the treasury ? 

1136 What force arrived at Pensucola 7 

2i 



24 aUESTIONS. 

Qs. Pg 

1137 280 What was it permitted to do ? 

1138 What did general Jackson do 1 

1139 What information did he receive from Mobile ? 

1140 What step did he then take ? 

1141 What did he find the condition of New Orleans ? 

1142 281 What was his conduct ? 

1143 Where did the enemy take a position, December 22d ? 

1144 What occurred in the evening of the 23d ? 

1145 282 Where did Jackson erect fortifications ? 

1146 Were these assaulted ? With what success? 

1147 When was the assault made 1 Describe it. 

1148 What was the amount of loss on each side 7 

1149 283 What took place on the west side of the river? 

1150 What course did general Lambert then take 1 

1151 When was peace concluded ? 

1152 What were the provisions of the treaty ? 

1153 \Vhat victories were achieved at sea ? 

1154 284 What was done in congress respecting a national bank ? 

1155 What tax v/as imposed ? 

1156 What occurred after the ratification of peace ? 

1157 What did commodore Decatur accomplish in Algiers? 

1158 What were the expenses of the war 7 

1 159 285 What eff'ect had the war on our manufacturing interests ? 
llfiO What important measures were adopted by congress ? 

1161 What convention was concluded between the United 

States and Great Britain 7 

1162 Who succeeded Mr. Madison as president of the United 

States ? 

1163 What new state was admitted into the Union ? 

1164 What consequences followed the commencing operations 

of the new national bank? 

1165 286 What was the action of congress on the subject of con- 

structing roads and canals 7 

1166 Who constituted the cabinet of Mr. Munro ? 

1167 What difficulties occurred with the Indians in Georgia f 

1168 287 What new states were admitted 7 

1169 What pensions were granted by congress ? 

1170 What were the results of general Jackson's campaign in 

Florida? 

1171 Vv^hat territory was ceded by Spain to the United States ? 

1172 288 What was the action of congress on the proposed admis- 

sion of Missouri into the Union 7 
] 173 W^hat new states were admitted into the Union ? 

1174 289 What new territory was ceded to the United States ? 

1175 What was the ratio of representation established by 

congress ? 

1 176 What occurred in the Gulf of Mexico ? 

1177 290 What distinguished individual visited the U. S. this year ? 

1 178 Recite the circumstances of this visit, and its results. 

1179 What was the result of the presidential canvass ? 

1180 291 Recite the difficulties which occurred respecting the In- 

dian lands in Georgia. 



aUESTIONS 25 

1181 292 What occurred on the completion of the Erie canal ? 

1182 293 How was the difficulty witli the Creek Indians finally 

adjusted 1 

1183 294 Who were appointed to attend the congress at Panama? 

1184 What remarkable events happened on the 4th of July in 

this year ? 

1185 What occurred 'n the State of New York ? 

1186 295 What important subject was acted on by congress 7 

1187 Who succeeded Mr. Ada«is in the presidential chair? 

1188 Who constituted the cabinet of president Jackson ? 

1189 296 What occurred in Georg'ia in relation to the Cherokeesi 

1190 297 What steps did the Cherolvces take ? 

1191 What action did cone:ress take on the subject 1 

1192 298 What treaty was made with France ? [South ? 

1193 299 What action of congress excited the opposition of the 

1194 What steps did the president take to quell this oppo- 

sition ? 

1195 Was the bank of the United States rechartered ? 

1196 What prevented its recharter ? 

1197 300 Where and when did the cholera first make its appear- 

ance ? 

1198 What incursions were made by the Indians ? 

1199 Who marched against and subdued them ? 

1200 How were the difficulties with South Carolina settled ? 

1201 How were the deposites removed from the United States 

Bank? 

1 202 301 What were the consequences of the removal 7 

1203 What action did the senate take on the subject? 

1204 What did thehouse of representatives do 7 

1205 302 Was there further trouble with the Florida Indians 7 

1206 Who was sent among them to induce them to emigrate 7 

1207 How did he succeed 7 

1208 What occurred the ensuing summer ? 
1200 How loug did the Florida war last ? 

1210 303 Describe the mode of warfare with the Indians. 

121 1 When did the great fire in New York occur ? 
l2l 2 How many acres were burnt over 7 

1213 How many buildings were destroyed ? What amount of 

property ? 

1214 How commenced the peopling of Texas from the United 

States ? 

1215 304 When and where occurred the first collision between 

Texas and Mexico ? 

1216 Were the Texaus successfol 7 

1217 What place did they nexi capture ? 

1218 What did Santa Anna do ? 

1219 In what manner did he conduct the war 7 

1220 What was the result of the battle of San J«ciniO 

1221 What did Santa Anna do while a prisoner ? 

1222 How resulted the convention held in Texas ? 

1223 Who succeeded general Jackson as president of the Un.- 

ted States 7 [Jackson? 

1224 305 What resolution passed the senate in regard to genera* 



26 QUESTIONS. 

Qs. Pg. 

1225 305 What in regard to Texas? 

1226 What did the president of Mexico do in consequence 7 

1227 Were there commercial difficulties about this time ? 

1228 Give some account of their efl'ects. 

1229 How were these embarrassments accounted for 7 

1230 What measures of relief were resorted to 7 

1231 306 Did the Florida war still continue ? 

1232 Describe the conduct of Osceola and his followers. 

1233 How did the first symptoms of discontent show themselves 

in Canada ? 

1234 Did they receive assistance from citizens of New York*? 

1235 Describe the affair of the steam-boat Caroline. 

1236 What action did the American executive take ? 

1237 What was the result of the president's proclamation 7 

1238 Who commanded the exploring expedition to the south 

seas 1 

1239 Explain the objects of this expedition. 

1240 307 What difficulties existed respecting the Maine boandary 7 

1241 How was quiet restored 7 [visions 7 

1242 Did the sub-treasury bill pass? and what were its pro- 

1243 308 Who succeeded Mr. VanBuren as president? 

1244 Who constituted the cabinet of president Harrison 7 

1245 What public acts were performed by president Harrison 1 

1246 When did his death occur ? 

1247 How long had he been in office ? 

1248 Who succeeded him in the presidential chair ? 

1249 309 What was done at the special session of congress in May 

1250 What caused the resignation of Mr. Tyler's cabinet ? 

1251 Who constituted the new cabinet ? [Island ? 

1252 Describe the political difficulties which occurred in Rhode 

1253 310 Who was elected governor by the suftrage party 7 

1254 What course did the suffrage party then pursue? 

1255 What took place at Chepatctiet? ' 

1256 What measures were taken by Gov. King ? 

1257 What became of Mr. Dorr ? 

1258 How was the Maine boundary finally settled ? [Hill ? 

1259 311 What occurred on the Anniversary of the battle of Bunker 

1260 Who delivered the oration? 

1261 When was the monument begun, andvi'hat wasitsheight? 

1262 What was done in congress with the Bankrupt law 7 

1263 What treaty was signed, and what was its fate 7 

1264 Who succeeded Mr. Tyler as president? 

APPENDIX. 

1265 312 By what was the era of the settlement of this country 

distinguished ? 

1266 What distinguished thecountry whence the settlers came 7 

1267 To what class did they belong ? 

1268 What powerful establishments existed in Europe 7 

1269 What conduct did they pursue ? 

1270 Were these establishments transferred to America ? 

1271 313 What doctrine prevailed in Europe 7 



aUESTIONS. 27 

Qs. Pg. 

1272 313 "What was the nature and consequence of this doctrine 7 

1273 What is meant by the law of primogeniture ? 

1274 what was the operation of this law ? 

1275 Does this doctrine, or this law, exist in the United States j 

1276 What is said of the systems of government established in 

the colonies 7 

1277 314 In what is the contrast greatest between the European and 

American system of government ? [cost 1 

1278 What does the militarypeace establishment of Great B ritain 

1279 What that of the United States ? 

1280 What the respective naval establishments ? 

1281 What do British subjects pay individually in taxes ? 

1282 What do those of the United States pay ? [engaged ? 

1283 In w^hat pursuits are the greatest poi-tion of the inhabitants 

1284 What is produced in the northern states 1 

1285 What in the middle and western 7 

1286 W' hat in the southern ? 

1287 What number was engaged in agriculture in 1820 ? 

1288 What value of agricultural products was exported ? 

1289 State the value of the principal articles. [merce ? 

1290 315 What circumstances contributed to the prosperity of com- 

1291 State the increase of our tonnage and revenue. 

1292 How many were engaged in commerce in 1820 ? 

1293 What was the amount of exports and imports in 1823 7 

1294 What in 1807 7 

1295 Why has commerce declined .? [attention? 

1296 How early did the cod fishery on the American coast attract 

1297 316 How many ships and seamen did the French employ in 

it in 1744. 

1 298 What quantity of fish did they take ? [of New England ? 

1299 In 1760, how many vessels were fitted out from the ports 

1300 How many seamen were employed ? [1783 ? 

1301 What is said in relation to the negotiation of the peace of 

1302 What estimate has been made in relation to these fisheries? 

1303 What was their annual value ? 

1304 Why important to the nation 7 

1305 What is said of the whale fishery ? [1807. In 1823? 

1306 317 State the value of the products of this fishery exported in 

1307 Recite the extracts from Burke's speech. 

1308 What is said of manufactures 7 

1309 318 What gave the first impulse to this branch of industry*? 

1310 What was the amount of manufactures in 1814 ? 

1311 Which are the principal manufacturing states 7 

1312 W^hich the principal manufactures ? 

1313 How many were engaged in manufactures in 1820 7 

1314 319 What was the amount of the debt in 1790 ? 

1315 What in 1812? 

1316 How much was conti*acted in the last war ? 

1317 What was the amount in 1823 ? 

1318 From what is the revenue principally derived ? 

1319 In 1822, how much accrued from commerce ? [sources ? 

1 320 How much from the sale of lands ? How much from other 



28 aUESTIONS. 

Qs. Pg. 

1321 319 Whatwas the amount of expenditure in 1822? 

1322 What was the excess of revenue over expenditures 1 

1323 What course has been pursued in Europe, in relation to 

education ? 

1324 What in the United States 1 

1325 320 What law was passed in 1647 in relation to schools 1 

1326 What was done when the inhabitants increased 1 

1327 What is the amount of the school fund in Connecticut ? 

1328 How is the interest appropriated 1 

1329 What has been the effect of this system ? 

1330 What is the amount of the school fund in New York ? 

1331 How is the interest appropriated ? 

1332 How many scholars were taught there in 1823 1 

1333 What is said of education in Virginia ? [cation ? 

1334 321 W^hat has the national government done in relation to edu- 

1335 What is said of academies 7 

1336 When was Harvard College founded ? Where ? 

1337 How many volumes does the library contain ? 

1338 When was Yale College founded ? 

1339 322 Where is it established ? 

1340 How many volumes does its libraries contain 7 

1341 How many other colleges are there in the Union ? 

1342 What are taught in all ? 

1343 What in addition are taught in some of them? 

1344 What remark has been made of the United States ? 

1345 Is it just? [States? 

1346 What direction has been given to talents in the United 

1347 323 What celebrated inventors may America boast of 7 

1348 Who are her eminent historians 7 Theological writers ? 

1349 What political writings are spoken of 7 

1350 What is said of American painters ? 

1351 324 Where are Congregationalists most numerous? 

1352 Where Presbyterians ? Where Methodists ? Where 

Roman Catholics ? [acter? 

1353 What are the distinguished traits of the American char- 

1354 W^hat is said of the manner of Americans ? 

1355 325 How oftendoesthe population ofthe United States double? 

1356 How often that of Great Britain ? 

1357 Has the augmentation of wealth and power been as rapid ? 

1358 What circumstances indicate that the United States will 

continue to prosper 7 

1359 326 Yet on what does their prospei-ity depend? 



RECOMMEiNDATIONS. 

fThe following paragraphs are extracted from several reviews 
and critical notices of this work.] 

From the North American Review. 
"This little volume is a simple narrative of facts, put 
together in a plain way, and mtended for schools. For 
such a purpose it seems well intended." " The mechani- 
cal division of the chapters is conveniently arranged for 
the use of reading classes in schools. In short, as an 
epitome of the history of the United States, designed for 
young readers, we know not that a better work than this 
has appeared." 

From the New York Commercial Advertiser. 
" The style of the author is at once familiar and pure ; 
the work ts well arranged, and we think it supplies a link 
m the chain of elementary instruction, which was much 
wanted. Disencumbered by dry and heavy details, which 
are always more or less irksome to the juvenile learner, it 
sketches rapidly the leading features of our history, from the 
embarcation of Columbus to the close of the late war, in a 
manner so clear that all can understand, and in a garb so 
attractive, that when the lessons are once commenced, they 
will no longer be considered in the light of a task. We 
therefore cordially recommend it to the attention of in- 
structers." 

Extract from a communication in Freedom's Sentinel, pub- 
lished at Greenfield, Mass. 
" I have lately been reading a History of the United 
States, adapted to the use of schools, the author of which is 
understood to be Mr. Hale, of N. Hampshire. As I have 
been highly pleased with the work, I wish to recommend 
it to the attention of your readers, in the hope that it may 
obtain that }H-eference to which its superiority seems justly 
to entitle it." " As we live in an age of improvement; as 
there is a general disposition to patronize the best works 
in each department, which are adapted to the use of schools; 
and as it is highly desirable to place the most correct histo- 
ries of our country in the hands of the rising generation, I 
hope that the work, which I have recommended, will find 
its way into families and schools in this country." 

Extract of a letter from an eminent Bookseller in London, to 
the publisher in Neto York. 
" I thank you for the History of the United States. It is 
excellently written, and just such a book as we want I 
put it to press the day after I received it." 






RECOMMEINDATIONS. 



SB 



From the London Literary Gazette. 
This volume "is a pretty clear and succinct account of the 
countries of tlie (northern) transatlantic continent, from the 
period when the original settlers proceeded from Europe." 
" To those who seek for general information on the subject 
of the United States, this volume will be an agreeable and 
useful companion ; and though we here and there detect the 
national vanity of brother Jonathan breaking through the 
strict path of history, it contains, on the whole, no very un- 
foir description of the conflict between the two nations." 
From the London Monthly Repository. 
" Abridged histories, fit to put into the hands of youth, and 
adapted to the mass of readers, whose want of time rcquiren 
knowledge to be set before them in a small compass, are 
the most useful of all publications; but, if we may judge 
from the actual state of popular literature, the most dilFicult 
of execution. What epitome of the History of England can 
be named, with which an intelligent father of a lamily, or 
jnstructer of the young, is fully satisfied ? 

" We have a near approach to our conception of what is 
wanted, for a popular history of a country, in the volume 
before us, which is, we believe, a re-print from a work in 
circulation in America. The story is neatly told ; the styl<» 
is simple and perspicuous ; there is no very predominant 
prejudice ; names are not set above tilings ; the love of lih 
erty is tempered by a regard to law end social order; patri- 
otism is a filial sentiment towards the writer's own country , 
and his reverence for virtue is seen in every page." 
A work entitled ♦' The HiKtory and Topography of the Uaited 
States," has lately been published, in London, in two volumes 
quarto. The following ia extracted from »ome remarks upou 
this work, in the Philadelphia Weekly Messenger. 

" It is a iittle remarkable, considering how long this book 
has been before the American public, thatnt) one has pub- 
lished the fact, that the Reverend Mr. Ilinton, of England, has 
thought proper to pirate a great portioji of Hale's Premium 
History of the U. States, without a word of acknowledgment, 
and that the l8)no volume of Mr. Hale is expanded into a 
4to, by means of a few words of" what squires call potter, 
and what men call prose," at the beginning and ending of 
the chapters, and a large type, margin, and lead?, through- 
out the book. 

" Hinton'a History and Topography of tlie U. S. is beauti- 
fully got up, with oApensive plates and maps. The History, 
being almost entirely fmm Hale, is, of course, excellent." 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




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